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Related Experiment Videos

The suprasternal fossa

S Ominsky, H S Berinson

    Radiology
    |February 1, 1977
    PubMed
    Summary

    A U or V-shaped gas density on chest X-rays indicates air in the suprasternal fossa. This finding is common in thin individuals and those with respiratory issues, and should not be mistaken for other esophageal or airway abnormalities.

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    Area of Science:

    • Radiology
    • Anatomy

    Background:

    • A U or V-shaped gas density on chest radiographs can be observed.
    • This finding is superimposed over the trachea on posteroanterior (PA) chest radiographs.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To describe the radiographic appearance of air in the suprasternal fossa.
    • To differentiate this finding from other potential abnormalities.

    Main Methods:

    • Review of posteroanterior chest radiographs.
    • Identification of U or V-shaped gas densities in the suprasternal region.

    Main Results:

    • The U or V-shaped density is caused by air in the suprasternal fossa.
    • This finding is common in cachectic individuals, post-laryngectomy patients, and those with COPD or acute respiratory distress.
    • The characteristic location and shape help distinguish it from esophageal air-fluid levels or upper airway diverticula.

    Conclusions:

    • Air in the suprasternal fossa presents as a distinct U or V-shaped gas density on PA chest radiographs.
    • Radiologists should be aware of this common finding and its typical associations to avoid misdiagnosis.

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