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Citation, DOI & article dataCitation: Murphy, A. Chest (lateral decubitus view). Reference article, Radiopaedia.org. (accessed on 08 Sep 2022) https://doi.org/10.53347/rID-53650 The lateral decubitus view of the chest is a specialized projection that is now rarely used due to the ubiquity of CT. It is chiefly used in the pediatric population. On this page:Undertaken to demonstrate small pleural effusions, or for the investigation of pneumothorax and air trapping due to inhaled foreign bodies.
A marker annotating 'horizontal beam decubitus" should always be present, with the side of interest clearly labeled. The entire lungs should be visible from the apices down to the lateral costophrenic angles.
ReferencesRelated articles: Imaging in practice
Promoted articles (advertising)What two views of the chest are taken to demonstrate a pneumothorax?The radiographic diagnosis of pneumothorax is usually straightforward (fig 1). A visceral pleural line is seen without distal lung markings. Lateral or decubitus views are recommended for equivocal cases.
What chest radiography finding is consistent with a left pneumothorax?Finding of pneumothorax on chest radiographs may include the following: A linear shadow of visceral pleura with lack of lung markings peripheral to the shadow may be observed, indicating collapsed lung. An ipsilateral lung edge may be seen parallel to the chest wall.
Which side is recommended for the PA projection of the chest?Patient position
A left lateral projection should be performed unless a right lateral projection is specifically requested by the physician. (The left lateral position is preferred because it permits better anatomical detail of the heart.)
What projections demonstrate the change in fluid position and reveals suspected pneumothorax?A lateral decubitus view obtained with a horizontal x-ray beam is the most sensitive radiographic projection for detecting an effusion. A small amount of fluid (10-25 mL) can be depicted on this projection.
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