Chest X-Ray

Overview

Reasons for the Procedure

Chest x-rays may be ordered as part of a physical examination, before hospitalization and/or surgery, or to assess signs or symptoms of conditions such as those related to the heart or lungs. Some signs or symptoms that may indicate the need for a chest x-ray include, but are not limited to, the following:

• persistent cough
  
• swelling of the feet and ankles
  
• an inability to lie flat without breathing difficulty
  
• other breathing difficulties

Chest x-rays are also used to check the position of implanted pacemaker wires and other internal devices such as pulmonary artery catheters or central venous catheters. Pulmonary artery catheters and central venous catheters are usually inserted through a vein in the neck (the jugular vein) or under the collarbone (the subclavian vein). A pulmonary artery catheter is advanced through the two chambers on the right side of the heart into the pulmonary artery in order to measure pressures in the heart to assess its function. A central venous catheter is advanced to the upper right chamber of the heart in order to assess fluid status and to infuse certain medications that cannot be given through a smaller vein in the arm or hand.

Risks of the Procedure

Women who are pregnant or suspect they may be pregnant should not have x-rays unless it is an emergency or urgent reason. In this case, the woman's abdomen should be shielded with a lead apron. Men should have their groin areas shielded during x-ray. NOTE: If you have had a chest x-ray within the previous few weeks, let your physician know. It is possible that the previous x-ray will be sufficient for your physician's current purpose. This can save money, time, and exposure to x-rays.

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