Where on the humeral head would you expect to see a Hill-Sachs lesion?

• A. Anterolateral
• B. Posterolateral
• C. Medial
• D. Superior

Answer: (B)

A Hill-Sachs lesion is a cortical depression of the humeral head that typically occurs as a result of a shoulder dislocation, particularly an anterior dislocation. The location of this lesion is significant because it indicates the area that impacts during the dislocation event.

The correct answer highlights the posterolateral aspect of the humeral head, which is where the lesions often manifest due to the mechanism of injury associated with anterior dislocations. When the shoulder dislocates anteriorly, the humeral head strikes against the anterior glenoid rim and can create an indentation or fracture on the posterolateral side as the arm is forced backward. This specific location is crucial in assessing the extent of the trauma to the shoulder joint and can influence treatment options, including surgical interventions aimed at repairing the humeral head.

Other options, such as the anterolateral, medial, and superior aspects of the humeral head, are less relevant when considering the position of a Hill-Sachs lesion following a typical anterior dislocation event, as these areas do not typically sustain the direct impact responsible for the characteristic damage.