Radiography of the upper limb revisited: the shoulder and the wrist

CT scan and MR imaging are the most efficient techniques to evaluate the up per limb, however, standard radiography remains a valuable method to explor e this anatomical region. In most situations, it is sufficient to allow a p recise diagnosis and determine therapeutic protocols. However, this method can present a real diagnostic value only when it is guided by medical histo ry and clinical data. The purpose of this work is to propose a practical ap proach for radiographic evaluation of the shoulder and the wrist, suited to the main clinical situations. CT-scan and MR imaging correlations will hel p to understand radio graphic findings.