Decubitus Chest
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Lateral Decubitus (Right or Left)

UPRIGHT BUCKY
Patient position
Lying on side (affected side DOWN for effusion, UP for pneumothorax).
Part position
Arms above head; spine straight; lie on side for ≥5 min before exposure.
Central ray
Horizontal, perpendicular to IR, at level of T7.
IR placement
35x43 cm (placed vertically relative to patient).

Tech pearls

  • Affected side DOWN to layer effusion against lateral chest wall.
  • Affected side UP for pneumothorax to bring it to top.