Radiographic Positioning
Step-by-step positioning guides with CR, SID, collimation, and evaluation criteria
Chest PA (Posteroanterior)
Routine chest examination · Suspected pneumonia · Cardiac evaluation
72 inches (180 cm) — minimises cardiac magnification.
Full inspiration — second deep breath
Chest Left Lateral
Complement to PA projection · Retrosternal/retrocardiac pathology · Posterior mediastinal lesions
72 inches (180 cm).
Full inspiration — suspended on second deep breath
Chest AP (Portable / Supine)
Critically ill patients unable to stand · ICU/bedside examination · Post-procedure checks (lines, tubes)
40–60 inches (100–150 cm) — document actual SID used.
Deepest possible inspiration
Chest Lateral Decubitus
Free pleural fluid (effusion) detection · Small pneumothorax detection · Differentiate free from loculated effusion
72 inches (180 cm).
Full inspiration
