Humerus Lateral (Upright) is a radiography positioning projection of the Upper Extremity. Upright, arm internally rotated, palm backward. SID 40". The centering point is located at the midpoint of the humerus in the lateral position. shoulder raised or against ir.. The central ray is perpendicular to ir.. Image-quality criteria include entire humerus visible in true lateral position., greater tuberosity projected posteriorly.. Standard exposure ranges from 70 to 80 kVp, 3 to 6 mAs, at an SID of 40 inches (102 cm).
Anatomy demonstrated
- Humeral head, neck, and shaft in lateral projection.
- Greater tuberosity projected posteriorly.
- Lesser tuberosity visible medially.
- Shoulder joint space open.
- Distal humerus and trochlea.
- Proximal radius and ulna.
Patient preparation
- Verify patient identity using two identifiers.
- Remove watches, bracelets, and radiopaque items from the arm.
- Position patient upright in lateral position.
- Internally rotate the arm with palm facing backward.
- Raise the shoulder or place it against the IR for support.
Position & centering point
At the midpoint of the humerus in the lateral position. Shoulder raised or against IR.
Central ray
Perpendicular to IR.
Exposure / technique
- kVp
- 70–80
- mAs
- 3–6
- SID
- 40" (102 cm)
- Notes
- Grid recommended. Positioning used when patient cannot be recumbent.
Image-quality criteria
- Entire humerus visible in true lateral position.
- Greater tuberosity projected posteriorly.
- Lesser tuberosity projected medially.
- Shoulder joint open and clearly defined.
- Distal humerus and elbow included.
- Collimation: 1 inch above shoulder, 1 inch below elbow.
Common errors / ARRT traps
- 1 Insufficient internal rotation leaves the humerus off true lateral.
- 2 Forward positioning rotates the shoulder.
- 3 Off-center CR clips the proximal humerus or elbow.
- 4 Lifting the shoulder closes the glenohumeral joint.
Clinical indications
- Humeral fracture in lateral plane.
- Shoulder dislocation assessment.
- Trauma evaluation when patient cannot be recumbent.
- Follow-up of proximal humerus fracture fixation.
Aligned to the 2025 ARRT Content Specifications.