Upper Extremity Procedures Flashcards

Which projection of the elbow is performed when the patient cannot fully extend the arm, requiring two separate images taken in partial flexion?

Answer: Partial flexion AP method

When full extension is impossible, two partial flexion AP projections (one centering the distal humerus, one the proximal forearm) are obtained.

For the Coyle method of the elbow, imaging the radial head and capitulum requires the CR angled:

Answer: 45° toward the hand

The Coyle method for the radial head/capitulum uses a 45° distal CR angle with the elbow flexed 90° and externally rotated.

A Bennett fracture involves which structure?

Answer: Base of the first metacarpal (thumb) with carpometacarpal dislocation

A Bennett fracture is an intra-articular fracture-dislocation at the base of the first metacarpal at the carpometacarpal joint of the thumb.

For the PA projection of the wrist, where is the central ray directed?

Answer: Midcarpal area (midpoint of wrist)

The CR is directed perpendicular to the midcarpal area (midpoint of the wrist) for the PA wrist projection.

The transscapular (scapular Y) lateral projection places the scapular body:

Answer: Perpendicular to the IR

In the scapular Y position the patient is rotated so the scapular body is perpendicular to the IR, creating the characteristic Y shape of the scapula.

Which special shoulder view is obtained with the humerus in internal rotation and the CR angled 25–30° cephalad to detect Hill-Sachs lesions?

Answer: Stryker notch method

The Stryker notch method (arm over head, CR 10° cephalad) is used to demonstrate Hill-Sachs defects on the posterolateral humeral head.

Mallet finger results from an avulsion injury to which structure?

Answer: Extensor tendon at the base of the distal phalanx

Mallet finger is caused by avulsion of the extensor tendon (with or without a bone fragment) at its insertion on the distal phalanx.