An oblique view in X-ray is an angled projection obtained by rotating the patient or the X-ray beam between the frontal (AP/PA) and lateral planes. It provides a different perspective to separate overlapping structures, improving detection of fractures, joint alignment, foreign bodies, and subtle bone or soft-tissue pathology. Oblique views are commonly used for spine, ribs, shoulder, pelvis and extremity imaging.

The three standard shoulder X‑ray views are: 1) Anteroposterior (AP) — shows the glenohumeral joint, tuberosities and joint space (often with neutral, external or internal rotation); 2) Axillary (inferosuperior) — visualizes the relationship of the humeral head to the glenoid and detects dislocations; 3) Scapular Y (lateral) — assesses alignment and scapular/glenoid fractures.

Position the patient standing or supine and rotate their torso 30–45° to produce an oblique view of the target area. Center the X‑ray beam perpendicular to the image receptor over the anatomy of interest, collimate tightly, and use appropriate exposure settings. Remove jewelry, apply shielding (gonads), instruct the patient to remain still or hold breath if needed, and mark left/right before exposure.

The AP lateral and AP oblique are standard shoulder X‑ray projections. The AP lateral (scapular Y) is a lateral scapula view showing the humeral head’s relation to the glenoid—useful for detecting dislocations and fractures. The AP oblique (Grashey) rotates the patient about 35–45° toward the affected side to open the glenohumeral joint space and assess the glenoid rim and joint alignment.

An oblique view is an imaging projection taken with the patient or X‑ray beam rotated between the standard frontal (AP/PA) and lateral positions. This angled perspective reveals anatomical details, overlaps, or fractures that can be hidden on straight frontal or lateral images, commonly used for spine, ribs, skull, and dental radiographs to improve visualization of structures and pathology.

An oblique ray is a light or X‑ray beam that strikes a surface or tissue at an angle other than perpendicular. In optics and imaging, oblique rays undergo refraction and produce angled projections, which can change apparent size, position, or focus. In medical imaging, oblique views use angled rays to reveal structures hidden on standard frontal or lateral projections.