Chest X-rays

PA chest

Collimation (anatomy inclusion): Collimate on four sides to area of lung fields. (Top border of illuminated field should be to the level of vertebra prominens, and lateral border should be to outer skin margins.) Ensure at least 8 to 10 posterior ribs are included and 5 to 6 anterior ribs are there with the clavicle and scapulas included

CR: T7 - 18cm (F) or 20cm (M) from vertebrae prominence or in line with inferior angle of scapula, perpendicular

Exposure factors: 110 kVp and 4 mAs

SID: 180 cm

Why do we need to put our chest as close to the bucky? Why is PA perferred?

Ensures the heart is the closest to the bucky, reducing OID and magnification of the heart

Why do we need to roll our shoulders forward for a PA chest?

Removes the scapula out of the field in order to clearly see the lungs and ribs

Lateral chest

Collimation (anatomy inclusion): Collimate on four sides to area of lung fields. (Top border of illuminated field should be to the level of vertebra prominens, and lateral border should be to outer skin margins.), Ensure at least 8 to 10 posterior ribs are included and 5 to 6 anterior ribs are there with the clavicle and scapulas included

CR: • CR perpendicular, directed to midthorax at level of T7 7.5 to 10 cm below level of jugular notch)

Exposure factors: 115 and 5 mAs