Abstract: Objective To compare the value of four imaging examinations, including the X-ray, CT, MRI and gas-iodine double contrast CT analyses, in the forensic expertise of shoulder joint injury． Methods Imaging data of shoulder joint injury, by the X-ray, CT, MRI and gas-iodine double contrast CT were retrieved and analyzed. Results The correct diagnosis rates of fracture and soft tissue injury by X-ray, CT and MRI were 52.8%, 72.0% and 63.2%, as well as 0.0%, 32.9% and 82.5%, respectively. The correct diagnosis rate of soft tissue injury by gas-iodine double contrast CT was 100%. Conclusion X-ray is a useful screening method, CT is better for diagnosis of fracture, and MRI is fit for diagnosis of soft tissue injury. Gas-iodine double contrast CT can reflect not only the soft tissue injury but also its severity. Thus, combined application of X-ray, CT, MRI and gas-iodine double contrast CT can provide important imaging information for forensic expertise in shoulder joint injury．

Key words: forensic medicine, wounds and injuries, shoulder joint, tomography, X-ray computed, magnetic resonance imaging, gas-iodine double contrast CT