Name of the Procedure:

Radiologic Examination, Chest, 2 Views (Frontal and Lateral)

• Common names: Chest X-ray, CXR
• Technical/Medical terms: Thoracic radiography

Summary

In a chest X-ray, two radiographic images are taken of the chest: one from the front (frontal view) and one from the side (lateral view). This helps healthcare providers visualize the lungs, heart, airway, blood vessels, and bones of the spine and chest.

Purpose

The chest X-ray helps in diagnosing conditions affecting the chest and its contents, such as lung diseases, heart problems, and chest injuries. It is a quick and non-invasive diagnostic tool that aids in detection, monitoring, and determining the extent of various thoracic conditions.

Indications

• Persistent cough
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Injury to the chest area
• Suspected infections, such as pneumonia or tuberculosis
• Monitoring known conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or heart failure
• Pre-surgical evaluations

Preparation

• No special preparation is typically required.
• Patients may be asked to remove clothes, jewelry, and any metal objects that might interfere with the X-ray image.
• Women should inform the technician if there is any chance of pregnancy.

Procedure Description

1. The patient stands against the X-ray plate for the frontal view.
2. The technician will instruct the patient to take a deep breath and hold it while the image is taken to ensure the chest is expanded.
3. For the lateral view, the patient turns sideways, and the process is repeated.
4. The X-ray machine emits a small dose of ionizing radiation to capture the images.

Tools/Equipment: X-ray machine, lead apron (for radiation protection) Anesthesia/Sedation: None required

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 10-15 minutes.

Setting

Performed in a hospital radiology department, outpatient clinic, or a standalone diagnostic imaging center.

Personnel

• Radiologic technologist (performs the X-ray)
• Radiologist (analyzes and interprets the X-ray images)

Risks and Complications

• Minimal exposure to ionizing radiation, considered safe but pregnant women should take precautions.
• Rarely, overexposure may cause radiation burns or tissue damage.
• There are virtually no immediate complications post-procedure.

Benefits

• Quick and non-invasive diagnostic method.
• Provides crucial information for diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Helps monitor the progress of known conditions.

Recovery

• No recovery time is needed; patients can resume normal activities immediately.
• Follow-up: Results are usually reviewed by a radiologist and discussed with the patient by their healthcare provider.

Alternatives

• CT scan of the chest: Offers more detailed images but with higher radiation exposure.
• MRI: Used for more detailed images without radiation but more costly and time-consuming.
• Ultrasound: May be used for specific conditions such as pleural effusions.

Patient Experience

• Slight discomfort from having to hold a deep breath or stand still.
• Generally painless procedure.
• Some patients may feel anxious about radiation exposure, but reassurances should be provided regarding its minimal risk.