Normal Shoulder X-Ray Report Template

Normal shoulder radiograph report template: glenohumeral and AC joint alignment, calcific tendinosis check, with posterior dislocation wording notes.

EXAMINATION: Shoulder radiograph, [right/left], 3 views.

CLINICAL HISTORY: [indication]

COMPARISON: None available.

TECHNIQUE: AP internal rotation, AP external rotation and axillary [or
scapular Y] views of the [right/left] shoulder.

FINDINGS:
Alignment: The glenohumeral joint is located on all views. The
acromioclavicular joint is aligned, without widening.
Bones: No acute fracture. The humeral head, glenoid, clavicle, acromion
and visualized ribs are intact.
Joints: Glenohumeral and acromioclavicular joint spaces are preserved.
No significant degenerative change.
Soft tissues: Unremarkable. No calcific tendinosis.

IMPRESSION:
1. No acute fracture or dislocation.

Dictation notes

• Glenohumeral location is confirmed only on the axillary or Y view — a posterior dislocation can look near-normal on the AP, so name the view that proves it.
• The fixed internal rotation “light bulb” contour of the humeral head is the AP clue to posterior dislocation.
• Comment on calcific tendinosis when present — it is a common, treatable explanation for the painful, radiographically “normal” shoulder.

Frequently asked questions

What views confirm the shoulder is not dislocated?

Glenohumeral location is confirmed only on an axillary or scapular Y view — a posterior dislocation can look nearly normal on the AP projection. A standard series combines AP views in internal and external rotation with one of those orthogonal views, and the report should name the view on which location was proven. On the AP, a fixed internal rotation 'light bulb' contour of the humeral head is the clue to posterior dislocation.

What belongs in a normal shoulder X-ray report?

A normal shoulder radiograph report confirms the glenohumeral joint is located on all views, the acromioclavicular joint is aligned without widening, and the humeral head, glenoid, clavicle, acromion and visualized ribs are intact. Joint spaces are preserved and the soft tissues are assessed, including an explicit statement about calcific tendinosis. The normal impression is 'No acute fracture or dislocation.'

Why comment on calcific tendinosis on shoulder X-rays?

Calcific tendinosis — calcium hydroxyapatite deposition, most often in the supraspinatus tendon — is a common and treatable explanation for a painful shoulder whose bones are radiographically normal. Naming it gives the clinician a diagnosis and treatment pathway, from anti-inflammatories to barbotage, rather than an unexplained negative study. A normal report should state its absence so the soft tissues are documented as reviewed.

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