10 Questions
On a PA film, the heart shadow appears smaller due to the heart being anterior and closer to the film/detector.
True
Anterior ribs are more prominent in superior position on an A-P view because the diaphragm is down and more of the lung is visible.
True
AP views are preferred for very ill patients who cannot stand erect, typically found in ICU settings where portable X-rays are common.
False
On an AP film, the heart shadow appears larger due to the heart being anterior and further away from the film/detector.
False
In AP views, the vertebral column and posterior ribs are more prominent.
False
In which position can a patient be examined to assess the volume of pleural effusion and determine if it is loculated?
Lateral decubitus position
What is the purpose of the apical lordotic view in radiology?
To visualize the apex of the lung
Which disease is commonly found more in the apex of the lung?
Lung cancer
Which view is NOT suitable for visualizing the apex of the lung?
AP view
What information can be gained from placing a patient in a lateral decubitus position during examination?
Assessment of pleural effusion volume and mobility
Study Notes
PA Film vs AP Film
- PA film is considered the "Gold Standard" due to the smaller heart shadow, as the heart is anterior and closer to the film/detector.
- Anterior ribs are prominent in PA film due to the diaphragm being down, allowing for more visibility of the lungs.
AP Film
- AP film is less useful and should be reserved for very ill patients who cannot stand erect, typically ICU patients.
- All x-rays in the ICU are portable and are AP views.
- Heart shadow is larger in AP film because the heart is anterior and further away from the film/detector.
- AP film has less sharpness and greater magnification, making it more prominent for vertebral column and posterior ribs.
Lateral Decubitus Position
- This position is helpful for assessing the volume of pleural effusion and demonstrating whether it is mobile or loculated.
Apical Lordotic View
- This view is good for visualizing the apex of the lung.
- Diseases that might be identified in this view are those that are found more in the apex, such as tuberculosis.
Learn about the differences between PA (Posteroanterior) and AP (Anteroposterior) chest X-ray films, including the positioning of the heart shadow, visibility of ribs, and when each type of film is preferred.
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