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The contralateral decubitus chest film
Annals of Emergency Medicine
|February 1, 1986
Summary
The contralateral decubitus chest X-ray, with the affected side up, often reveals more pathology than the dependent view. This technique is valuable for detecting pleural effusions and lung base abnormalities, especially in pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Emergency Medicine
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- The cross-table decubitus chest film is a standard imaging technique.
- The dependent position is traditionally emphasized for suspected pathology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic utility of the contralateral decubitus chest film.
- To compare the efficacy of dependent versus elevated decubitus views.
Main Methods:
- Review of radiology and emergency medicine literature.
- Analysis of chest film interpretations comparing dependent and contralateral decubitus views.
Main Results:
- The contralateral decubitus view (hemithorax up) frequently reveals more information than the dependent view.
- This technique effectively identifies unsuspected bilaterality of pleural effusion, subpulmonic effusions, and obscured lung base pathology.
- It aids in distinguishing vascular structures from infiltrates, particularly in pediatric cases.
Conclusions:
- The contralateral decubitus chest film is a valuable adjunct to upright views.
- It offers a cost-effective and radiation-sparing alternative to repeat imaging for equivocal results.
- Obtaining both decubitus views can provide complementary diagnostic information.