Velpeau view of the shoulder

Case contributed by Matt A. Morgan
Diagnosis not applicable

Presentation

Presents with right arm pain

Patient Data

Age: 70 years
Gender: Female

Radiographs of the Rt shoulder

x-ray

Mild glenohumeral and coracoclavicular osteoarthrosis.

A Velpeau (30 degrees) and a modified Velpeau (45-60 degrees) were performed.

Case Discussion

The Velpeau view is a useful projection when patients are unable to move their arm from an abducted position (often in a setting of immobilization).

The classic Velpeau view is obtained at a 30 degree backward lean and the radiograph obtained from superior to inferior.

This view can be modified to a 45 or 60 degree angle. Patients typically need to lean forward with the radiograph obtained frontally for this, since it is difficult for patients in pain to lean backwards to that degree. This modified position shifts the orientation of the scapula, clavicle, acromion, and glenoid and can be useful for problem solving.

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