The ABER position relates to MR arthrography of the shoulder joint and is a mnemonic for ABduction and External Rotation.
In this position, labral tears are made conspicuous by tightening the inferior glenohumeral labroligamentous complex (which are also the most important glenohumeral ligaments in preventing shoulder instability).
To attain this position, the patient's pertinent hand is placed behind the head or neck.
- 1. Tirman PF, Bost FW, Steinbach LS, Mall JC, Peterfy CG, Sampson TG, Sheehan WE, Forbes JR, Genant HK. MR arthrographic depiction of tears of the rotator cuff: benefit of abduction and external rotation of the arm. Radiology. 192 (3): 851-6. doi:10.1148/radiology.192.3.8058959 - Pubmed
- 2. Lee SY, Lee JK. Horizontal component of partial-thickness tears of rotator cuff: imaging characteristics and comparison of ABER view with oblique coronal view at MR arthrography initial results. Radiology. 224 (2): 470-6. doi:10.1148/radiol.2241011261 - Pubmed
- 3. David W. Stoller. Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine. ISBN: 9780781773577