Shoulder Case 5 Diagnosis

Diagnosis is confirmed by plain films. An important view to accurately classify the fracture is an axillary view. The axillary view is essential for visualizing the greater tuberosity and lesser tuberosities(see Additional Images for an example). An axillary view or a "Y" view is also indicated to ensure there is not associated glenohumeral dislocation. Positioning for an axillary film is often painful and requires analgesia. If the patient is in too much pain to perform an axillary view, another option may be to defer the view until follow up when the patient is in less pain.