Thorax Imaging

The plain film chest radiograph is among the most frequently ordered diagnostic procedures (Fig. 1). Therefore, gaining a solid understanding of the normal anatomy of the lungs, pleurae, heart and bony structures of the thorax is essential for evaluating radiographs of this region. In general, a standard chest radiograph includes two views-PA (posterior/anterior) and lateral . This allows for proper localization of structures, foreign bodies, masses, etc.
CT scans of the thorax allow for a more three-dimensional view of the thoracic viscera (heart and lungs) and adjacent structures and may allow for better detection of pathology that could be missed in a plain film radiograph (Fig. 2). Interpretation of any chest radiograph requires an in-depth understanding of the anatomy of the thorax. Intravenous or oral contrast may be used to differentiate specific thoracic structures, especially vasculature.

Figure 1 :Plain film. IVC = inferior vena cava, LV = left ventricle, RV = right ventricle, PA = posterior anterior.

Figure 2 : CT axial images. A-E arranged from superior to inferior. AA= ascending aorta, BC =brachiocephalic artery, DA= descending aorta, GH = glenohumeral joint, HH = humeral head, IV = interventricular, IVG = inferior vena cava, LA = left atrium, LBCV = left brachiocephalic vein, LCC = left common carotid artery, LPV = left pulmonary vein, LSC = left subclavian artery, LV = left ventricle, RA= right atrium, RBCV = right brachiocephalic vein, RPV = right pulmonary vein, RV= right ventricle, SP = spinous process, SVC = superior vena cava, TP = transverse process, VB = vertebral body.