Tag Archives: lungs

Chest PA Upright
4
Feb

Overview

The PA upright chest radiograph is a standard view for evaluating the lungs and heart. The patient stands facing the detector with shoulders rolled forward. This view minimizes cardiac magnification and improves visualization of pulmonary markings.

Technique

Instruct the patient to take a deep inspiration and hold breath during exposure. Ensure the scapulae are out of the lung fields and the chin is elevated. Use appropriate exposure factors for body habitus.

Clinical Indications

PA upright chest is used for routine chest evaluation and screening. It assesses cardiopulmonary disease and follow up of known conditions. It is preferred when the patient can stand and cooperate.

Image Assessment

Evaluate lung fields heart size and mediastinal contours on the PA view. Check for symmetry and presence of lines tubes or devices. Compare with prior studies for interval change.

Respiratory System
4
Feb

Overview

The respiratory system enables gas exchange between the environment and the bloodstream. It includes the nose pharynx larynx trachea bronchi and lungs with alveolar units. Ventilation perfusion matching is critical for oxygenation and carbon dioxide removal.

Upper Airway

The nose and pharynx filter warm and humidify inspired air. The larynx protects the airway and facilitates phonation. Upper airway patency affects breathing and sleep related disorders.

Lower Airway and Lungs

The trachea divides into bronchi and bronchioles terminating in alveoli for gas exchange. Pulmonary circulation delivers blood for oxygenation and removes carbon dioxide. Surfactant and alveolar architecture maintain lung compliance and surface area.

Clinical Relevance

Respiratory diseases include pneumonia COPD asthma and pulmonary embolism. Imaging such as chest radiography CT and ultrasound aid diagnosis and guide therapy. Pulmonary function testing complements imaging for functional assessment.