Upper Extremity X-Ray, Left, Views
A left upper extremity X-ray is an imaging test that uses painless radiation to create pictures of the bones and surrounding tissues of the left arm, including the shoulder, upper arm, elbow, forearm, wrist, and hand as ordered.
["This test helps your care team look for fractures, dislocations, arthritis, or other bone and joint problems in your left arm."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 38867-8
- Short code
- XR Ribs upper-L Views
- Synonyms
- XR Ribs upper-L Views
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- xr
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Shows
An X-ray of the left upper extremity produces images of the bones and some soft tissues in the left arm. It can reveal breaks, cracks, joint misalignment, and changes in bone shape or density. The exact structures pictured depend on which views your provider orders.
Why Your Provider May Order It
Your provider may request this X-ray after an injury, fall, or accident to check for a fracture or dislocation. It may also be used to evaluate ongoing arm, shoulder, elbow, or wrist pain, swelling, deformity, or limited movement, or to monitor a known bone or joint condition.
How the Test Is Done
You will be asked to remove jewelry or metal objects from the area and to sit or lie in specific positions while the technologist takes a few pictures. You may need to hold still or hold a position briefly. The test is quick, and you can usually go home right afterward.
What to Expect and How to Prepare
No special preparation is usually needed. Tell the technologist if you might be pregnant, since X-rays use radiation. Let your care team know if you have had recent imaging of the same area so they can avoid unnecessary repeat tests. Results are read by a radiologist and shared with your provider.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Left upper extremity X-rays are commonly used to detect fractures and dislocations and to assess bone and joint disorders such as arthritis. Findings help guide decisions about casting, splinting, further imaging, or referral to a specialist. A normal result does not rule out every soft-tissue injury, so your provider will interpret the images alongside your symptoms and exam.
Short name
Left Upper Extremity X-Ray
Frequently asked questions
Is a left upper extremity X-ray painful?
How long does the test take?
Will the X-ray show muscle or ligament injuries?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy