Which projections are considered routine for an examination of the humerus?

The routine projections for an examination of the humerus are the anteroposterior (AP) view and the lateral view. The AP view provides a comprehensive view of the humerus's length and alignment, showing it from the front (anterior) to the back (posterior). This projection helps assess any fractures, dislocations, and the overall structure of the bone.

The lateral view complements the AP view by providing a side perspective of the humerus. This perspective is crucial for visualizing the relationship between the various structures of the humerus, as well as detecting any abnormalities that might not be evident in the AP view. Together, these two projections provide a complete assessment of the humerus, aiding in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Other projection combinations, such as oblique views, while useful in specific situations, are not considered routine for a traditional humeral examination. The axial view is less commonly used for general investigation of the humerus, making it not typical in standard protocols. Therefore, the combination of the anteroposterior and lateral views provides the most effective routine for evaluating the humerus.