The elbow series is a set of radiographs taken to investigate elbow joint pathology, often in the context of trauma. It usually comprises an AP and lateral projection, although other non-standard, modified projections are utilized for specific indications.
Indications
Elbow x-rays are indicated for a variety of settings including:
trauma
bony tenderness
suspected fracture of the proximal radius and ulna
suspected fracture of the distal humerus
radial head dislocations
obvious deformity
detecting joint effusions
infection
Projections
Standard projections
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demonstrates distal humerus, proximal ulna, and radius
shows both the medial and lateral epicondyles in profile
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best demonstrates the ulna-trochlear joint, coronoid process, and the olecranon process
used to assess both the anterior humeral line and the radiocapitellar line
Modified trauma projections
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horizontal beam lateral
modified lateral projection that requires little to no patient movement
produces a diagnostic lateral/AP projection without risking patient pain
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modified AP projection when the patient cannot straighten the arm
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modified elbow projection for patients in acute flexion greater than 90 degrees
Additional projections
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an axial projection that focuses on the radial head, used when radial head fractures are suspected
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an additional projection often performed to demonstrate the radial head free from superimposition
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projection demonstrating the coronoid process in profile