Chest radiograph: Difference between revisions

Required projections can vary by country and hospital, although an erect posteroanterior (PA) projection is typically the first preference. If this is not possible, then an anteroposterior view will be taken. Further imaging depends on local protocols which is dependent on the hospital protocols, the availability of other imaging modalities and the preference of the image interpreter. In the UK, the standard chest radiography protocol is to take an erect posteroanterior view only and a lateral one only on request by a radiologist.<ref>{{cite web|title=Chest X-ray quality – Projection|url=http://radiologymasterclass.co.uk/tutorials/chest/chest_quality/chest_xray_quality_projection.html#top_forth_img|website=Radiology Masterclass|access-date=27 January 2016}}</ref> In the US, chest radiography includes a PA and Lateral with the patient standing or sitting up. Special projections include an AP in cases where the image needs to be obtained [[List_of_abbreviations_used_in_medical_prescriptions#stat|stat]] (immediately) and with a portable device, particularly when a patient cannot be safely positioned upright. Lateral decubitus may be used for visualization of air-fluid levels if an upright image cannot be obtained. Anteroposterior (AP) Axial Lordotic projects the clavicles above the lung fields, allowing better visualization of the apices (which is extremely useful when looking for evidence of primary [[tuberculosis]]).