The clavicle view is an anteroposterior radiographic projection centered on the clavicle, often taken with a 15–30° cephalic (upward) tilt or as an AP upright film to project the clavicle above the ribs. It visualizes the entire clavicle—from sternoclavicular to acromioclavicular ends—to detect fractures, malalignment, displacement, and joint injuries; oblique or comparative views may be added.

The lateral clavicle is the outer third of the collarbone near the shoulder, forming the acromioclavicular (AC) joint where it meets the acromion of the scapula. It provides attachment sites for ligaments (acromioclavicular and coracoclavicular) and muscles (deltoid, trapezius), contributing to shoulder stability and movement. Fractures or AC joint injuries commonly affect this region.

A lateral X‑ray is a side view, not inherently left or right. It becomes a left or right lateral depending on which side of the patient faces the image receptor — left lateral means the patient’s left side is against the detector, right lateral the opposite. For example, chest imaging often uses a left lateral to better profile the heart. The side should be marked on the image.

For clavicle radiography, place the patient erect or supine with chest against the image receptor and arms by the sides. For an AP view, center the central ray (CR) to the mid‑clavicle perpendicular to the receptor. For an AP axial view (to project the clavicle above the thorax), angle the CR 15–30° cephalad toward the mid‑clavicle. Expose on full inspiration.

In the US, a clavicle X-ray commonly costs about $50–$250 without insurance; with insurance or in-network care the patient share is usually lower. In countries with public health systems it’s often covered (no direct charge). Prices vary by location, facility type, number of views, and whether imaging is done in the ER versus an outpatient center.

A clavicle X-ray is ordered when there’s shoulder or collarbone pain after trauma (fall, sports injury, vehicle accident) to check for fractures, dislocations, bone fragments, or malalignment. It’s used when you have swelling, visible deformity, bruising, or reduced arm movement. X-rays also monitor healing after treatment or surgery and investigate persistent pain, suspected bone infection, or a bone lesion.