Respirology/ ICU

Why expiration film for Pneumothorax?

When a pneumothorax is suspected, an inspiration AND expiration chest x-ray will often be obtained. On an expiratory film, the pneumothorax typically can be identified easier.

WHY?The expiration will contract the lung/mediastinal anatomy, making it appear more “white” (denser). This will increase the contrast between the pathologic pneumothorax and normal lung anatomy making it more *evident to the viewer. (*some studies contend otherwise)

 

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Dr. C Humphreys

Internal Medicine

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