CHEST AP VIEW X-RAY SCAN
Also Known As
SENIOR
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FAMILY
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Certified Labs
NABH Accredited
Reports in
6hrs
Measures
No description available
Identifies
No identification information available
About The Test
Definition & purpose
A Chest AP (Antero-Posterior) view is an x-ray taken with the x-ray beam entering the front (anterior) of the chest and exiting the back (posterior). It is used whenever the standard PA view is not safe or possible.
- Typical scan duration: 2–5 seconds of actual exposure.
- Radiation dose: Roughly 0.02–0.1 mSv—about the same as 3–10 days of natural background radiation.
What is Chest AP View X-Ray Scan?
Difference between AP vs PA view
- PA (Posterior-Anterior): Patient stands, chest against the detector—preferred for routine check-ups.
- AP: Patient faces the detector; x-ray tube is behind—common for bed-bound or emergency cases.
Front-to-back imaging mechanics explained
The beam travels front-to-back, magnifying the heart slightly. This view is chosen when the patient cannot stand or when monitoring devices are in place.
Types of Chest AP View X-Ray Scan
- Erect AP view: Patient sits or stands when able; best for lung expansion checks.
- Supine AP view: Patient lies flat; useful for trauma or unconscious cases.
- Portable bedside AP view: Machine brought to ICU or home; maintains quality with digital detectors.
List of Parameters
- Lung fields & pleura – collapse, consolidation, fluid.
- Cardiac size & contour – enlargement or abnormal shape.
- Bony thorax – rib or clavicle fractures, spine alignment.
- Mediastinal structures – trachea, aorta, and lymph nodes.
Why This Test
- Acute respiratory symptoms: Sudden breathlessness, cough with fever.
- Chest trauma evaluation: After accidents to find fractures or air leaks.
- Chronic disease follow-up: COPD, heart failure, or TB medication response.
When to Take Test
- ICU & emergency indications: Rapid rule-out of pneumonia, pneumothorax, or tube placement.
- Elderly or immobile patients: Beds, wheelchairs, or stretchers used.
- Post-operative monitoring: Check for lung collapse or fluid after chest or abdominal surgery.
Benefits
Benefits of Taking the Chest AP View X-Ray Scan
- Fast bedside imaging – no need to move critical patients.
- Low-cost screening tool – under ₹500 at Cadabams Diagnostics.
- Guides immediate treatment decisions – antibiotics, chest tube, or oxygen therapy.
Illnesses Diagnosed with Chest AP View X-Ray Scan
Condition | Typical X-ray Findings |
---|---|
Pneumonia & tuberculosis | Localized white patch (consolidation), cavitary lesions |
Heart failure signs | Enlarged heart, fluid in lung bases |
Fractures & pneumothorax | Broken rib lines, absent lung markings at the edge |
Pleural effusion | White layer at lung base with meniscus sign |
Preparing for test
- Clothing & jewellery removal tips: Wear a loose front-opening gown; remove necklaces, bras with metal.
- Breathing instructions: Hold a deep breath on cue to expand lungs.
- What to inform the technologist: Pacemaker, pregnancy status, or inability to sit/stand.
Pre-requisites Chest AP View X-Ray Scan
- Valid doctor’s prescription – printed or digital.
- Pregnancy status declaration – required for all females 12–55 yrs.
- Previous imaging history – bring old x-ray or CT films if available.
Best Time to Take the Chest AP View X-Ray Scan
- As soon as clinically indicated – delays can worsen outcomes.
- Morning slots for in-patients – faster when technicians are less busy.
- Avoiding repeated exposure within short intervals – unless medically necessary.
Eligibility
- Adults of all ages – no upper age limit.
- Pediatric use in emergencies – dose adjusted for size.
- Contraindications checklist: Only relative—pregnancy (shield or defer), inability to remain still.
Procedure for Taking a Chest AP View X-Ray Scan
- Positioning: Sit upright on bed or stand facing the detector.
- X-ray beam alignment: Tube centered at the 7th thoracic vertebra.
- Image capture duration: ~5 seconds of stillness.
Caution Before Taking the Test
- Remove metallic objects – coins, chains, hairpins.
- Inform if pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Stay still during exposure – motion blurs the picture.
Test Results
Results and Interpretations
Finding / Observation | Description | General Interpretation / Significance |
---|---|---|
Normal lungs | Clear black fields | No infection or collapse |
Enlarged heart | Cardiac width >50% of chest width | Possible heart failure |
Rib fracture | Sharp break in rib line | May need pain control and monitoring |
Pleural effusion | White fluid level at lung base | May indicate infection or heart failure |
Risks & Limitations
- Radiation exposure levels: Very low; still minimized with lead shielding when possible.
- Image quality limitations vs PA view: Heart appears larger, subtle lung detail slightly reduced.
- Pregnancy considerations: Always inform staff; shielding provided and exam deferred if non-urgent.
FAQs
How long does the scan take?
2–5 seconds of exposure; entire process <10 minutes.
Is there any pain involved?
No. You simply hold your breath for a moment.
When will I get my report?
Routine: 2 hours. Stat: 30 minutes.
Can I eat before the scan?
Yes. No fasting required.
Is the radiation safe?
Yes, at diagnostic levels. We use digital DR systems to keep dose minimal.
Do I need a doctor's referral?
Yes. A prescription ensures the correct study is done.