Diagnostic Imaging

X-Rays have been used in medical practice since the late 1800’s. Although the technology has greatly improved over the years x-rays are still of limited use in some circumstances. For us, as Respiratory Therapists, the chest x-ray is most often the first diagnostic image of choice. It’s quick, easily performed, and by comparison delivers a relatively small dose of x-radiation then it’s “big-brother”: Computed Tomography or CT scan.

Although very useful, we must continually keep in mind the limitations of the standard chest x-ray as a diagnostic tool. As an example; a patient complaining of mild to moderate shortness of breathe, who presents with or without chest pain. A clean chest x-ray should raise more questions than it answers. There should always be a moderate level of suspicion when similar cases are presented. Look further. Obtain a more detailed diagnostic image study such as computed tomography. Most often the short-term benefit far outweighs the future radiation risk.

What I am demonstrating in the 2 examples below (Coming SOON) is one very important fact. X-rays can be very deceiving, and following that deception can sometimes be a fatal mistake. Set-1 and set-2 are actually the same patient. In each set the chest x-ray and accompaning CT were taken on the same day. Look at the x-ray first very carefully. Then look through the CT images.

As always if you have any questions or comments please drop me a note.

J. D'Urbano, RRT