Radiology of Thorax

Question 1

describe basic principles of chest imaging - densities

Answer 1

air - black
fat - grey
soft tissue/muscle - grey/white
bone - white
metal - bright white

Question 2

describe techniques used in chest imaging - ultrasound

Answer 2

fluid allows passage of sound waves - black
soft tissue allows passage of sound waves - bright
air blocks passage of sound waves - shadow
bone blocks passage of sound waves - shadow

Question 3

describe cardiomediastinal contours

Answer 3

refer to PP

Question 4

describe lobar collapse/consolidation

Answer 4

refer to PP

anterior displacement of oblique fissure

Question 5

describe techniques used it chest imaging - CXR (standard PA view)

Answer 5

healthy patient standing
shoulders braced forward so scapulae does not obscure lungs
radiograph taken at full inspiration, minimising magnification of cardiac shadow (ratio to chest wall - under 50%) and displaying at least 6 ribs’ anterior ends
x-ray passes from posterior to anterior (PA view)

Question 6

describe techniques used in chest imaging - CXR (standard AP view)

Answer 6

ill patient supine 
x ray passes anterior to posterior
inferior to PA view;
heart shadow magnified
scapulae overlie and obscure lungs
difficult for patient to adequately inspire