1. Pneumothorax is the presence of air in the pleural space causing lung collapse, and pneumomediastinum is the presence of air in the mediastinum.
2. Pneumothorax can be spontaneous, traumatic, or iatrogenic and is classified as primary or secondary depending on underlying lung conditions. Tension pneumothorax is a life-threatening form caused by trapped air that displaces mediastinal structures.
3. Chest x-ray is used to diagnose pneumothorax by identifying the visceral pleural line and lung collapse. Features of tension pneumothorax on x-ray include mediastinal shift and tracheal deviation. Pneum
This document defines and describes several radiographic signs seen on chest x-rays. It defines signs such as the air bronchogram, silhouette sign, spine sign, and bulging fissure sign. For each sign, it provides a brief definition and examples of medical conditions in which the sign may occur, such as pneumonia, lung tumors, and pulmonary embolism. The document aims to inform radiologists and doctors about important signs seen on chest x-rays and their potential medical implications.
A 45-year-old man presented with a 2-month history of cough and hemoptysis. Imaging showed a 7x7.5x6 cm lobulated cystic lesion in the left lower lobe with surrounding consolidation. CT findings were suggestive of an infected bronchogenic cyst. Bronchogenic cysts are congenital malformations that result from aberrant embryological budding of the tracheobronchial tree. They typically appear on imaging as well-defined smooth lesions and can become infected, leading to symptoms like cough.
Describes cross sectional anatomy of the mediastinum , and lobar and segmental anatomy of the lung with teaching points and radiological guidelines and multiple examples of lobar and segmental pathologies and how we localize these pathologies .Also the types of chest CT images and indications of chest CT.
This document discusses chest ultrasound and its use in diagnosing and evaluating critically ill patients. It provides an overview of chest ultrasound, describing how it can be used to detect conditions like pneumothorax, consolidation, and pleural effusion. The document also outlines the advantages and disadvantages of chest ultrasound, describes normal anatomy and various pathological findings like pulmonary edema, pneumothorax, consolidation, and cancer metastases. It concludes that chest ultrasound is easy to learn, can quickly rule out pneumothorax, and is more sensitive than chest x-ray for certain conditions.
Lung ultrasound can be used to evaluate a variety of pulmonary conditions. It can identify normal lung patterns as well as pathologies. Pneumonia appears as a hypoechoic consolidated area that may contain air or fluid bronchograms. Pulmonary embolism typically presents as a triangular or rounded hypoechoic lesion with vascular signs at the margins. Lung abscesses appear as anechoic rounded lesions that may contain air or develop an echogenic capsule. Atelectasis can have a liver-like appearance with bronchograms and may be caused by compression or obstruction. Bronchial carcinoma commonly appears hypoechoic with irregular borders but may enhance with contrast. Metastases often appear as rounded lesions with sharp borders.
This document provides descriptions and radiographic signs of various pulmonary conditions seen on chest x-rays and CT scans. It includes definitions of terms like secondary lobule and centrilobular emphysema. Specific pathologies covered include Langerhans cell histiocytosis, lymphangioleiomyomatosis, pulmonary fibrosis patterns, and lymphocytic interstitial pneumonia. Radiographic findings are presented for different conditions along with accompanying CT images to illustrate signs like cysts, nodules, and reticulation. Differential diagnoses are discussed based on imaging appearance.
Segmental anatomy of lungs , anatomy of mediastinum and secondary lobuleGamal Agmy
?
The document discusses the segmental anatomy of the lungs and secondary lobule. It notes that there are approximately 23 generations of dichotomous branching from the trachea to the alveolar sacs. The secondary lobule is described as the basic anatomic unit of pulmonary structure and function, measuring 1-2 cm and containing 5-15 pulmonary acini. It is supplied by a terminal bronchiole in the center and surrounded by connective tissue septa and two lymphatic systems. Diseases typically manifest in either the centrilobular or perilymphatic areas based on how they enter the lungs.
The document discusses the reticular pattern seen on CT scans of the lung. A reticular pattern results from the superimposition of irregular linear opacities, forming a mesh-like or network appearance. Reticular opacities can be fine, medium, or coarse depending on the width of the opacities. A classic reticular pattern is seen in pulmonary fibrosis where curvilinear opacities form small cystic honeycomb spaces along the pleural margins and bases. Potential causes of interlobular septal thickening seen on CT include pulmonary edema, lymphangitic carcinomatosis, fibrosis, and sarcoidosis. Honeycombing signifies the presence of fibrosis and is seen commonly in idiopathic
Describes the basic radiology of diffuse interstitial disease ,with differential diagnosis of nodular interstitial pattern and how to approach HRCT findings .
Bronchial Artery Embolization- By Dr.Tinku JosephDr.Tinku Joseph
?
Bronchial artery embolization (BAE) is a minimally invasive procedure used to control massive or recurrent hemoptysis by occluding the blood supply to the lungs via selective catheterization and embolization of abnormal bronchial vessels. BAE has a high rate of immediate bleeding control of 57-100% and long-term control of 70-88%. Potential complications include tissue infarction if smaller embolic particles are used and transverse myelitis if branches supplying the spinal cord are inadvertently occluded. Careful angiography is required to identify the origin of vessels like the artery of Adamkiewicz to avoid neurologic complications during the procedure.
Presentation1.pptx, radiological imaging of diffuse lung disease.Abdellah Nazeer
?
This document discusses radiological imaging techniques for evaluating diffuse interstitial lung disease. It begins by describing diffuse interstitial lung disease as a group of conditions that cause inflammation and scarring of the lung tissue supporting the air sacs. Common symptoms include shortness of breath and cough. The document then outlines the various tests and imaging modalities used to diagnose interstitial lung diseases, including blood tests, spirometry, pulse oximetry, chest x-rays, CT scans, and biopsies. CT scans are highlighted as particularly useful for identifying patterns of lung damage and assessing disease progression and severity. Specific interstitial lung diseases like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and sarco
X RAY CHEST IN EVALUATION OF MEDIASTINAL MASSESMrudang Raval
?
The document discusses several anatomical lines in the mediastinum that divide it theoretically rather than physically. It describes the locations and normal appearances of the anterior junction line, posterior junction line, azygoesophageal line, para-aortic line, and paraspinal lines. Key points include that the anterior junction line is always concave towards the lung, while the posterior junction line extends above the sternoclavicular notch. The azygoesophageal line forms an inverted S curve behind the esophagus. The document also notes how locations of masses and abnormalities can be identified relative to these anatomical lines and structures.
This presentation aims to give a foundational knowledge in the art of radiological interpretation of the chest radiograph.
It includes some of the important anatomical structures visible on a chest X-ray along with technical aspects regarding image aquisition in correlation with lateral views and cross-sectional imaging to give a more complete sense of the structures in view.
This document contains descriptions and images of various pleural conditions visible on chest x-rays and CT scans. It includes examples of small and large pleural effusions, loculated effusions, empyema, pneumothoraces, and distinguishing features between pleural effusions and ascites on imaging studies. The images demonstrate how pleural fluid appears in different locations within the thorax and can be differentiated from other pathologies based on characteristics like density, borders, and displacement of surrounding structures.
This document provides a detailed summary of various patterns seen on HRCT scans of the lungs including reticular, nodular, ground glass, mosaic and honeycombing patterns. It describes the characteristic radiological features of different interstitial lung diseases such as UIP, NSIP, COP, RB-ILD, DIP, LIP, AIP and others. Key diagnostic criteria and differentiating features between these conditions are discussed. HRCT images demonstrating examples of the described patterns are also included.
The document discusses the pulmonary interstitium, which is the connective tissue within the lungs. It has three main functions: supporting the lung, fluid balance, and repair/remodeling. The interstitium is made up of a thin portion forming barriers between alveoli and capillaries, and a thick portion where fluid can accumulate. The thick portion contains extracellular matrix, macrophages, and fibroblasts. There are three zones of interstitial tissue: peripheral, axial, and parenchymal. Fluid balance in the interstitium is regulated by Starling forces and leakage can occur if pressures are too high. Remodeling of the matrix is also important for lung biology and chronic inflammation. The document then provides examples of
1) The document discusses the diagnosis and management of solitary pulmonary nodules (SPNs), which are defined as radiographic opacities less than 3cm surrounded by lung parenchyma.
2) CT imaging is important for evaluating characteristics of SPNs such as size, borders, attenuation, and cavitation which provide clues to determining if they are benign or malignant.
3) For SPNs over 8mm, further testing with PET scanning or tissue biopsy may be needed to establish a diagnosis, as nodule characteristics on CT alone are not always definitive. Smaller or subsolid nodules may only require follow up CT scans.
[1] A 52-year-old woman underwent a health check-up and a CT scan found a 2.2 cm nodule in her right lung. [2] To determine if the nodule is benign or malignant, Dr. Jankharia examines factors like calcification, growth over time, and enhancement on contrast scans. [3] Since this nodule showed growth and enhancement, a CT-
This document discusses patterns seen on computed tomography (CT) scans of the chest in various lung diseases. It begins by describing the anatomy of the secondary pulmonary lobule and how different diseases can affect the central or peripheral portions. It then outlines four main patterns seen on CT: reticular opacities, nodules, areas of increased attenuation, and areas of decreased attenuation. Specific diseases are linked to each pattern. Important findings for several interstitial lung diseases are also summarized.
Pulmonary embolism is a blockage of the pulmonary artery or its branches by material that has traveled from elsewhere in the body through the bloodstream. It is most commonly caused by deep vein thrombosis in the legs. Symptoms include dyspnea, chest pain, and cough. Risk factors include prolonged bed rest, cancer, oral contraceptives, and recent surgery or trauma. Diagnosis involves evaluating clinical probability and testing such as D-dimer, CT pulmonary angiography, ventilation-perfusion scanning, and pulmonary angiography. Treatment focuses on anticoagulation to prevent further clots.
1. Chest x-rays are one of the oldest and most widely used imaging modalities, discovered by Wilhelm R?ntgen.
2. Standard chest x-ray views include posteroanterior and lateral views to evaluate the lungs, heart, bones, and vasculature. Additional specialized views may be needed.
3. Proper technique is important for chest x-rays, as faulty technique can create a false impression of disease. Factors like positioning, inspiration level, exposure, rotation, and beam angulation must be considered.
A 30-year-old male presented with complaints of breathlessness and cough with expectoration for one month. Chest X-ray and CT scan revealed left hydropneumothorax, right bullous disease/hydropneumothorax, and bilateral lower lobe bronchiectasis. Needle aspiration was performed to relieve the pneumothorax. Idiopathic spontaneous pneumothorax often recurs, with at least 20-30% experiencing recurrence within 5 years, usually within the first year. Distinguishing features between a skin fold and genuine pneumothorax on chest X-ray include lung markings extending beyond the fold and absence of a fine pleural line.
This document discusses radiology signs of pneumomediastinum. It begins by defining pneumomediastinum and listing potential sources where air can originate from, both intrathoracic and extrathoracic. It then describes several common radiographic signs seen with pneumomediastinum, including the thymic sail sign, ring around the artery sign, and ginkgo leaf sign. Examples of each sign are shown through radiograph and CT images. Other signs like the continuous diaphragm sign, tubular artery sign, and Naclerio's V sign are also defined. The document emphasizes the importance of recognizing these signs on imaging for diagnosing pneumomediastinum.
1) HRCT shows reticular pattern involving subpleural areas of the superior segment of lower lobes with some interlobular septal thickening, suggestive of usual interstitial pneumonia.
2) There is also a reticular pattern with tractional bronchiectasis and subpleural sparing with surrounding areas of fibrosis, consistent with fibrotic nonspecific interstitial pneumonia.
3) Small multifocal areas show the "atoll sign" with central ground glass opacity and thick-walled cysts, seen in conditions like bronchiolitis obliterans organizing pneumonia, especially in an immune compromised patient.
There are widespread areas of consolidation permeated by ground-glass opacities throughout the lungs, consistent with diffuse alveolar damage. A few prominent mediastinal lymph nodes are seen but are nonspecific. Differential considerations include various infections, autoimmune diseases, and bleeding disorders.
Presentation1.pptx, radiological anatomy of the chest.Abdellah Nazeer
?
This document summarizes the radiological anatomy of the chest as seen on imaging such as x-rays, CT scans, and MRI. It describes the lobes and fissures of the lungs, notable features of heart size and location, positions of the diaphragm and other structures. CT anatomy is also reviewed, with the mediastinum divided into four compartments and key structures within each compartment identified and located in relation to nearby vessels and airways.
The document discusses the reticular pattern seen on CT scans of the lung. A reticular pattern results from the superimposition of irregular linear opacities, forming a mesh-like or network appearance. Reticular opacities can be fine, medium, or coarse depending on the width of the opacities. A classic reticular pattern is seen in pulmonary fibrosis where curvilinear opacities form small cystic honeycomb spaces along the pleural margins and bases. Potential causes of interlobular septal thickening seen on CT include pulmonary edema, lymphangitic carcinomatosis, fibrosis, and sarcoidosis. Honeycombing signifies the presence of fibrosis and is seen commonly in idiopathic
Describes the basic radiology of diffuse interstitial disease ,with differential diagnosis of nodular interstitial pattern and how to approach HRCT findings .
Bronchial Artery Embolization- By Dr.Tinku JosephDr.Tinku Joseph
?
Bronchial artery embolization (BAE) is a minimally invasive procedure used to control massive or recurrent hemoptysis by occluding the blood supply to the lungs via selective catheterization and embolization of abnormal bronchial vessels. BAE has a high rate of immediate bleeding control of 57-100% and long-term control of 70-88%. Potential complications include tissue infarction if smaller embolic particles are used and transverse myelitis if branches supplying the spinal cord are inadvertently occluded. Careful angiography is required to identify the origin of vessels like the artery of Adamkiewicz to avoid neurologic complications during the procedure.
Presentation1.pptx, radiological imaging of diffuse lung disease.Abdellah Nazeer
?
This document discusses radiological imaging techniques for evaluating diffuse interstitial lung disease. It begins by describing diffuse interstitial lung disease as a group of conditions that cause inflammation and scarring of the lung tissue supporting the air sacs. Common symptoms include shortness of breath and cough. The document then outlines the various tests and imaging modalities used to diagnose interstitial lung diseases, including blood tests, spirometry, pulse oximetry, chest x-rays, CT scans, and biopsies. CT scans are highlighted as particularly useful for identifying patterns of lung damage and assessing disease progression and severity. Specific interstitial lung diseases like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and sarco
X RAY CHEST IN EVALUATION OF MEDIASTINAL MASSESMrudang Raval
?
The document discusses several anatomical lines in the mediastinum that divide it theoretically rather than physically. It describes the locations and normal appearances of the anterior junction line, posterior junction line, azygoesophageal line, para-aortic line, and paraspinal lines. Key points include that the anterior junction line is always concave towards the lung, while the posterior junction line extends above the sternoclavicular notch. The azygoesophageal line forms an inverted S curve behind the esophagus. The document also notes how locations of masses and abnormalities can be identified relative to these anatomical lines and structures.
This presentation aims to give a foundational knowledge in the art of radiological interpretation of the chest radiograph.
It includes some of the important anatomical structures visible on a chest X-ray along with technical aspects regarding image aquisition in correlation with lateral views and cross-sectional imaging to give a more complete sense of the structures in view.
This document contains descriptions and images of various pleural conditions visible on chest x-rays and CT scans. It includes examples of small and large pleural effusions, loculated effusions, empyema, pneumothoraces, and distinguishing features between pleural effusions and ascites on imaging studies. The images demonstrate how pleural fluid appears in different locations within the thorax and can be differentiated from other pathologies based on characteristics like density, borders, and displacement of surrounding structures.
This document provides a detailed summary of various patterns seen on HRCT scans of the lungs including reticular, nodular, ground glass, mosaic and honeycombing patterns. It describes the characteristic radiological features of different interstitial lung diseases such as UIP, NSIP, COP, RB-ILD, DIP, LIP, AIP and others. Key diagnostic criteria and differentiating features between these conditions are discussed. HRCT images demonstrating examples of the described patterns are also included.
The document discusses the pulmonary interstitium, which is the connective tissue within the lungs. It has three main functions: supporting the lung, fluid balance, and repair/remodeling. The interstitium is made up of a thin portion forming barriers between alveoli and capillaries, and a thick portion where fluid can accumulate. The thick portion contains extracellular matrix, macrophages, and fibroblasts. There are three zones of interstitial tissue: peripheral, axial, and parenchymal. Fluid balance in the interstitium is regulated by Starling forces and leakage can occur if pressures are too high. Remodeling of the matrix is also important for lung biology and chronic inflammation. The document then provides examples of
1) The document discusses the diagnosis and management of solitary pulmonary nodules (SPNs), which are defined as radiographic opacities less than 3cm surrounded by lung parenchyma.
2) CT imaging is important for evaluating characteristics of SPNs such as size, borders, attenuation, and cavitation which provide clues to determining if they are benign or malignant.
3) For SPNs over 8mm, further testing with PET scanning or tissue biopsy may be needed to establish a diagnosis, as nodule characteristics on CT alone are not always definitive. Smaller or subsolid nodules may only require follow up CT scans.
[1] A 52-year-old woman underwent a health check-up and a CT scan found a 2.2 cm nodule in her right lung. [2] To determine if the nodule is benign or malignant, Dr. Jankharia examines factors like calcification, growth over time, and enhancement on contrast scans. [3] Since this nodule showed growth and enhancement, a CT-
This document discusses patterns seen on computed tomography (CT) scans of the chest in various lung diseases. It begins by describing the anatomy of the secondary pulmonary lobule and how different diseases can affect the central or peripheral portions. It then outlines four main patterns seen on CT: reticular opacities, nodules, areas of increased attenuation, and areas of decreased attenuation. Specific diseases are linked to each pattern. Important findings for several interstitial lung diseases are also summarized.
Pulmonary embolism is a blockage of the pulmonary artery or its branches by material that has traveled from elsewhere in the body through the bloodstream. It is most commonly caused by deep vein thrombosis in the legs. Symptoms include dyspnea, chest pain, and cough. Risk factors include prolonged bed rest, cancer, oral contraceptives, and recent surgery or trauma. Diagnosis involves evaluating clinical probability and testing such as D-dimer, CT pulmonary angiography, ventilation-perfusion scanning, and pulmonary angiography. Treatment focuses on anticoagulation to prevent further clots.
1. Chest x-rays are one of the oldest and most widely used imaging modalities, discovered by Wilhelm R?ntgen.
2. Standard chest x-ray views include posteroanterior and lateral views to evaluate the lungs, heart, bones, and vasculature. Additional specialized views may be needed.
3. Proper technique is important for chest x-rays, as faulty technique can create a false impression of disease. Factors like positioning, inspiration level, exposure, rotation, and beam angulation must be considered.
A 30-year-old male presented with complaints of breathlessness and cough with expectoration for one month. Chest X-ray and CT scan revealed left hydropneumothorax, right bullous disease/hydropneumothorax, and bilateral lower lobe bronchiectasis. Needle aspiration was performed to relieve the pneumothorax. Idiopathic spontaneous pneumothorax often recurs, with at least 20-30% experiencing recurrence within 5 years, usually within the first year. Distinguishing features between a skin fold and genuine pneumothorax on chest X-ray include lung markings extending beyond the fold and absence of a fine pleural line.
This document discusses radiology signs of pneumomediastinum. It begins by defining pneumomediastinum and listing potential sources where air can originate from, both intrathoracic and extrathoracic. It then describes several common radiographic signs seen with pneumomediastinum, including the thymic sail sign, ring around the artery sign, and ginkgo leaf sign. Examples of each sign are shown through radiograph and CT images. Other signs like the continuous diaphragm sign, tubular artery sign, and Naclerio's V sign are also defined. The document emphasizes the importance of recognizing these signs on imaging for diagnosing pneumomediastinum.
1) HRCT shows reticular pattern involving subpleural areas of the superior segment of lower lobes with some interlobular septal thickening, suggestive of usual interstitial pneumonia.
2) There is also a reticular pattern with tractional bronchiectasis and subpleural sparing with surrounding areas of fibrosis, consistent with fibrotic nonspecific interstitial pneumonia.
3) Small multifocal areas show the "atoll sign" with central ground glass opacity and thick-walled cysts, seen in conditions like bronchiolitis obliterans organizing pneumonia, especially in an immune compromised patient.
There are widespread areas of consolidation permeated by ground-glass opacities throughout the lungs, consistent with diffuse alveolar damage. A few prominent mediastinal lymph nodes are seen but are nonspecific. Differential considerations include various infections, autoimmune diseases, and bleeding disorders.
Presentation1.pptx, radiological anatomy of the chest.Abdellah Nazeer
?
This document summarizes the radiological anatomy of the chest as seen on imaging such as x-rays, CT scans, and MRI. It describes the lobes and fissures of the lungs, notable features of heart size and location, positions of the diaphragm and other structures. CT anatomy is also reviewed, with the mediastinum divided into four compartments and key structures within each compartment identified and located in relation to nearby vessels and airways.
3. Case1 32歳女性: 呼吸苦 ショック
A) ER portable 挿管(-)
B) 左第3-7肋骨骨折がみられる。また、左胸部に軽度の皮下気腫を認め
る。(頸部は提示されていない)
C) 左側 CP angle は dull です。
D) 気管?右左気管支とも激しく右方に偏移。
E) 縦隔は極端に右側へ偏位している(圧排されている) 。心拡大なし。左
右の心辺縁および、下大静脈もスムーズに追え、左右肺門部の拡大は
ありません。
F) 左側胸壁から肺が虚脱し、左横隔膜が下方に偏移している。
Chest X-ray of left-sided pneumothorax (seen on the right in this image). The
left thoracic cavity is partly filled with air occupying the pleural space. The
mediastinum is shifted to the opposite side
48. Supine Pneumothorax
Distribution of pneumothorax in the supine and
semirecumbent critically ill adult.
Tocino IM, Miller MH, Fairfax WR.
AJR Am J Roentgenol. 1985 May;144(5):901-5.
Although a number of radiologic signs of pneumothorax in the supine
patient have been reported, the frequency of involvement of various
pleural recesses has not been emphasized. In 88 critically ill patients with
112 pneumothoraces, the anteromedial (38%) and subpulmonic (26%)
recesses were the most commonly involved in the supine and
semirecumbent position. In this study, 30% of pneumothoraces were
not initially detected by the clinician or radiologist, and half of these
progressed to tension pneumothorax. Knowledge of the most common
recesses involved in pneumothorax and aggressive use of additional
radiographic views, including computed tomography, should increase
detection of pneumothoraces in critically ill patients.
49. Supine Pneumothorax
Pneumothorax in supine patient
Dr Yuranga Weerakkody and Dr Vinod G Maller et al.
A pneumothorax does not display classical signs when a patient is positioned
supine for a chest radiograph. Instead, it may be demonstrated by looking for
the following signs:
? relative lucency of the involved - basilar hyperlucency
? deep, sometimes tongue like costophrenic sulcus - deep sulcus sign
? anteromedial pneumothorax (earliest location)
increased sharpness of the adjacent mediastinal margin and diaphragm
increased sharpness of the cardiac borders
? visualization of the anterior costophrenic sulcus - double diaphragm sign
? visualization of the inferior edge of the collapsed lung above the diaphragm
? depression of the ipsilateral hemidiaphragm- depression of diaphragm
50. Anteromedial pneumothorax
(Anteromedial Recess)
AP chest X-ray showing right
pneumothorax with complete lung collapse.
Transverse CT confirms this finding.
The classical appearance in the upright
position is the presence of radiolucent air
and the absence of lung markings between
the shrunken lung and the parietal pleura.
In the supine ventilated patient, gravity and
the effects lung disease often give rise to a
different appearance of the so-called
‘supine pneumothorax’. The pneumothorax
is usually anteromedial or sub-pulmonic
causing lucent upper quadrants of the
abdomen, sharp superior surfaces of the
diaphragm, the deep sulcus sign, and
visualization of the inferior surface of
consolidated lung.[9] Less often, the
pneumothorax is apical, lateral (displaces
the minor fissure from the chest wall), or
posteromedial. False-positive appearances
may occur from skin folds, overlying
tubing/dressing/lines, and prior chest tube
tracks.
53. Medial Stripe Sign
縦隔?心陰影の左側に沿って
透亮影が大動脈弓を越えて続
く。
Sign of LUL(left upper lobe) collapse -looks like an "air crescent", where
hyperexpanded superior segment of LLL
surrounds aortic arch
- lucent stripe between the medial edge
of the collpased segment and the aortic
arch.
The is lower lube that has been pulled up
by the collpased lung (Luftsichel Sign)
54. Deep Sulcus Sign
Chest X-ray demonstrating
the deep sulcus sign
suggestive of left anterior
pneumothorax in a supine
ventilated patient.
62. Safe Triangle
The 'safe triangle' for
inserting a chest drain.
The most common position for
chest tube insertion is in the midaxillary line, through the ‘safe
triangle’ . This position
minimizes risk to underlying
structures such as the viscera
and internal mammary artery and
avoids damage to muscle and
breast tissue resulting in
unsightly scarring. A more
posterior position may be chosen
if suggested by the presence of a
loculated collection. While this is
relatively safe, it is not the
preferred site as it is more
uncomfortable for the patient to
lie on after insertion and there is
more risk of the drain kinking.