Chest Imaging Flashcards
If I need a CXR of someone, what motion do I have them do sometimes and why?
Hugging motions, to move the scapula out of the way.
Where does the apex of the heart normally appear on a CXR?
Mid-clavicular over the left lung.
What are the key characteristics of a mammogram?
Highly sensitive and cheap.
Involves radiation and is painful usually.
Sensitive = ruling out, so it gives many true negatives but sometimes false positives.
If I have a lump in a breast from a mammogram, what do I follow up with?
US. Mammograms just show lumps in general.
Why do we need 2 views of every bone?
Because it only shows a 2D plane, which can hide many things.
What does an opaque lung indicate usually?
Some sort of fluid or mass
How do I want my patient positioned during a CXR? Why?
Standing up or sitting up at least. This allows fluid and air to settle at the bottom, rather than spreading out and covering things.
What do thickened bronchi usually appear as on a CXR?
Increased opacity off the primary bronchi.
Which bronchus is most likely to be obstructed by inhaled objects?
Right bronchus, because it is more vertical.
How does cardiomegaly present on a CXR?
The heart will appear larger, so the apex shifts more to the left, past the mid-clavicular line.
What kind of conditions do we order CXRs for?
Cough, chest pain, Dyspnea, choking, hemoptysis, heart failure.
What does a pulmonary embolism cause?
Chest pain and severe difficulty breathing. Will lead to cyanosis and death if untreated.
