Chest

Question 1

Why should radiographs of the chest be taken on arrested or full respiration.

Answer 1

• to avoid blur caused by the respiratory movement
• Lungs are well demonstrated when aerated

Question 2

Why use an erect position in the chest x-ray rather than horizontal,

Answer 2

• positioning is simplified
• Fluid levels are readily shown
• Pneumothorax is readily shown
• The effect of gravity on the organs allows for the disclosure for maximum area of the lung tissue.
• Control of respiration is more satisfactory

Question 3

Preference of PA over AP

Answer 3

• lungs are near to the film and are less magnified
• Less magnification of the heart
• Apices are more clearly shown
  *Vin female patients pressure of the breasts is more even, therefore more even density of the breasts on the radiograph.

Question 4

Criteria for viewing a chest radiograph

Answer 4

• the whole thorax must be included and correctly positioned.
• Scapulae should be projected away from the lung fields
• No evidence of respiratory movement
• Image density and contrast should meet the requirements of the one who requested for the examination.
• Evidence of full respiration
• Medial ends of clavicle should be equidistant from the spinous process
• Breast shadows should be symmetrical

Question 5

How do you know that a radiograph was taken on full respiration

Answer 5

• there’s a clear view of 8 anterior ribs and 10 anterior ribs.

Question 6

Projections for the chest

Answer 6

• postero-anterior.
• Penetrated PA
• PA on expiration
• AP
• Lateral
• Apical
• Oblique
• Decubitus