X Ray Right Clavicle Oblique view, in Visit Clinic

The best radiographic view for the clavicle is an AP projection with a cephalic (cephalad) tilt of about 15–30°. This angulated AP view lifts the clavicle off thoracic structures, improving visualization of its full length and fracture displacement. Typically both a neutral AP and a cephalic-tilt AP are obtained to assess alignment and include the sternoclavicular and acromioclavicular joints.

An oblique view of an X‑ray is taken with the patient or X‑ray tube rotated at an angle between standard frontal and lateral positions to project anatomy off the usual planes. This angled perspective separates overlapping structures, improving visualization of bones, joints, rib fractures, and spinal facets. Oblique views help detect subtle fractures, dislocations, or articular pathology not clearly seen on AP/PA or lateral images.

Position the patient upright or supine with the affected shoulder centered to the image receptor. Remove clothing/metal and shield as required. Obtain an AP view with a 15–30° cephalic tube tilt (tube angled toward the head) to project the clavicle above the thorax; include sternoclavicular and acromioclavicular joints. Immobilize to avoid motion; take additional axial or oblique views if displacement is suspected.

The clavicle X‑ray is obtained with AP and AP‑axial (lordotic) projections. Patient is upright or supine with chest against the detector, arms by the sides and shoulders rolled back; for AP‑axial use a 15–30° cephalad tube angle (or have the patient lean back) to project the clavicle above the ribs. Center the CR on the mid‑clavicle and suspend respiration.

A clavicle X‑ray cost varies by country and setting: in the US typically $100–$400 for a single view (higher in ER or without insurance); in private UK clinics about £50–£150 (NHS care is free for eligible patients); in India roughly ₹200–₹1,000. Final price depends on location, facility type, number of views and whether emergency care or insurance covers it.

An oblique radiographic position is one in which the patient or body part is rotated so the X‑ray beam passes at an angle between the frontal (AP/PA) and lateral planes. It separates overlapping structures to better show anatomy, lesions, fractures, or joints. Obliques are described by direction and degree of rotation and by which side of the body is nearer the image receptor.