Oxygen reservoir bags simulating chest pathology: a case series

We present a series of plain chest radiographs taken in acute settings, with artifactual projections from oxygen reservoir bags. These artifacts are shown to simulate chest pathology in each case.

The identification of artifacts on imaging prevents misdiagnosis and potential mistreatment of patients in acute settings. We highlight patterns of findings caused by the projection of oxygen reservoir bags in radiographs taken in the emergency setting.

We present plain chest films in 4 patients taken in the acute setting, either in the emergency department or acute admissions unit. In this case series, oxygen reservoir bags simulate pneumothoraces, lung edges, and bullous disease.

Artifacts on chest radiographs are potential causes of misdiagnosis and subsequent inappropriate treatment. By highlighting the patterns created by the projection of oxygen reservoir bags, emergency physicians, radiologists, and reporting radiographers will be aware of the potential problems.