Learning objectives
To review physical X-ray bases for image interpretation.
To propose a systematic checklist to structure chest X-ray reading and report,
from technical quality to pathology detection,
what to look for and how to describe.
To increase radiologists self-confidence on chest X-ray interpretation.
Background
To understand the radiographic image,
first we have to understand some basic physics.
X-rays travel in straight lines,
leaving the X-ray tube,
as a beam of X-rays diverging.
The structures the X-rays hits first will be magnified in the image,
in relation to those which are nearer the detector.
To reduce magnification the X-ray source can be moved further away from the subject.
Structures that need to be measured accurately should be placed closer to the detector.
These are the reasons why posteroanterior (PA) incidence...
Findings and procedure details
CHESTLIST
The following checklist aims to guide the reading of chest X-rays in a systematized order,
so the interpretation is done in an organized and efficient way,
and can be used to succinctly guide chest X-rays reports.
Each medical doctor should create its own reading sequence,
easier to memorize and less prone to failure.
Amusingly,
we call this checklist to read chest X-rays - ChestlistFig. 3.
1.Patient identification
Patient identification should always be the first item checked when reading any imaging study.
Interpreting an exam...
Conclusion
Conventional radiology is the oldest imaging technique.
However,
it still plays an unquestionably important role in medical imaging,
and chest X-ray is the pillar of thoracic imaging.
A systematic read and interpretation of chest radiographies decreases the likelihood of missing findings,
expedites the time spent inits evaluation,
and automatically prepares an organized and problem-oriented report.
This way,
it’s important to increase the training and confidence of the radiologist for the interpretation of such a noble image.
Personal information
C.
Carneiro,
A.
R.
Gameiro,
A.
R.
Ventosa,
J.
Brito
Radiology Department -Algarve Hospital and University Centre
Portimão - Portugal
References
1.
Goodman LR.
Felson's Principles of Chest Roentgenology,
4th Edition.
2015.
Saunders.ISBN: 978-1-4557-7483-8
2.
Keats TE,
Anderson MW.
Atlas of Normal Roentgen Variants That May Simulate Disease.
2012.
Saunders.ISBN:0323073557
3.
Speets AM,
van der Graaf Y,
Hoes AW et-al.
Chest radiography in general practice: indications,
diagnostic yield and consequences for patient management.
Br J Gen Pract.
2007;56 (529): 574-8
4.Jr RBJ et-al.
Diagnostic Imaging: Emergency: Published by Amirsys.
Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
ISBN:1931884765