Introduction to Portable Chest Radiography: Support Devices

The introduction to portable chest radiography outlines a systematic approach to the performance and interpretation of bedside or portable chest radiography. These studies are frequently obtained in critically ill, debilitated and traumatized patients and are performed as anteroposterior (AP) chest radiographs. In each case, the radiologist should identify and assess all visible medical devices for appropriate positioning and exclusion of post procedural or post placement complications. In fact, it is important to explain the nature of all radiopaque structures visible on the radiograph. The radiologist then assesses the lung volume, presence or absence of airspace or interstitial disease, the pulmonary vasculature, and the pleural spaces and chest wall. Comparison to prior studies is important for the identification of subtle changes and abnormalities. Critical findings such as malpositioned medical devices, new consolidations, interval atelectasis, pneumothorax and/or pneumoperitoneum need to be promptly communicated to the clinical staff. In some cases, patients with new abnormalities may require further assessment with more advanced imaging such as chest CT.