CHEST RADIOGRAPHY IN THE ICU

Proper positioning and assessment of abnormalities and complications o f the above-mentioned devices have a significant impact an the managem ent of critically ill patients in the intensive care unit (ICU). The t imely assessment of new or rapidly evolving findings is critical. Opti mal radiographic technique, availability of images to the clinicians, and rapid reporting hv the radiologist all serve to maximize She effic acy of bedside chest radiography in She ICU. Sometimes, changes in car diopulmonary status may only be appreciated on chest radiographs (CXRs ). Complications from ventilatory assistance, such as barotrauma, occu r frequency and must be detected promptly. The position of monitoring devices, an important component of critical care management, is best c hecked radiographically. Indications for CXRs and the recommended freq uency for repeat follow-up CXRs are based on the existing literature a nd the consensus of an expert panel formed by the American College of Radiology. (C) Elsevier Science Inc., 1997.