X - Ray Left Scapula AP View

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

Depending on the area to be imaged, you may be asked to wear a hospital gown at the time of the scan.
You may have to remove your jewelry and any metal objects which might interfere with the image.
Pregnant women should inform their doctor (and x-ray technician) as the radiations may affect the fetus. If needed, precautions can be taken to lower the radiation exposure to the fetus.

Understanding X - Ray Left Scapula AP View

What is X - Ray Left Scapula AP View?

An X-ray of the scapula (shoulder blade) is a safe and painless test to visualise the shoulder blade and the soft tissues (skin and muscles) surrounding it using small amount of radiation. Scapula is a triangle shaped bone which connects the collarbone to your upper arm bone and the chest wall. The image is recorded on a special x ray film. The X-ray image is black and white. Dense structures such as the bones, appear white and softer body tissues, such as the skin and muscles appear darker. The actual exposure time to radiation is usually less than a second, although the overall test may take 15-20 minutes.

What is X - Ray Left Scapula AP View used for?

To diagnose any fracture of the scapula (shoulder blade) and to monitor the healing of the broken bone, after it has been set.
To diagnose any suspected infection, osteoporosis, deformities or abnormal growth of this bone.
To diagnose winged scapula (a condition in which the shoulder blade protrudes from the back).

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about X - Ray Left Scapula AP View

Frequently Asked Questions about X - Ray Left Scapula AP View

Q. What are the drawbacks of a bone X-ray?

X-ray images give a very clear view of the bones. However, it does not provide a good visual image of the soft tissues like tendons, muscles or fat tissue under the skin. Even the bone microfractures or complicated spine injuries are not clearly visible on the X Ray images. Apart from this, it also exposes the patient to some amount of radiations but the benefit of the information gained from an X-ray image outweighs the risk of radiations.

Q. Who interprets the X-ray results?

The interpretation of an X-Ray image is carried out by a radiologist who analyses or reads the X-ray image and prepares a report of the findings which is shared with the patient.