Plain X-rays of the Adult Chest: Emergency, Lines and Instrumentation

Image Interpretation - Plain X-rays of the Adult Chest: Emergency, Lines and Instrumentation
Session Overview
Description
This session focuses on chest radiographs in the Emergency Department and devices seen on chest radiographs. The findings in life-threatening conditions, the indications for devices and the relevant anatomy are described. Mistakes and complications of placement are discussed.

Learning Objectives
By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Describe the common life-threatening conditions for which chest radiography is performed and the findings on a radiograph
• Describe common devices seen on chest radiographs and recall their uses
• Describe the anatomy relevant to these devices, the correct positioning of the devices and common mistakes in placement of these devices
• Recall the need to act quickly if devices are positioned incorrectly, especially nasogastric tubes

Prerequisites
Before commencing this session you should complete:

• Image Interpretation - Plain X-rays of the Adult Chest: Introduction
• Image Interpretation - Plain X-rays of the Adult Chest: General Anatomy and Physiology
• Image Interpretation - Plain X-rays of the Adult Chest: The Normal Chest Radiograph

Chest radiographs in the Emergency Department
The chest radiograph is a frequently requested investigation in the Emergency Department (ED). Literally any pathology can be seen on such radiographs. Pathology may be long-standing and unrelated to why the patient is acutely unwell. Alternatively, virtually any disease may present for the first time to the ED. The chest radiograph is often invaluable in helping to assess the patient.

Some conditions are life-threatening emergencies and require urgent treatment within the ED, or emergency inpatient therapy or surgery. This session aims to explain some of these emergency diagnoses and the findings on radiographs.