Imagerie thoracique : technique, indications

Standard chest X-ray is the technique used as first-line investigation for thoracic imaging; it provides a comprehensive view of the thorax. Conventional imaging is progressively replaced by digital imaging which allows image processing, transfer, and storage with similar diagnostic performances. Computed tomography is the reference imaging tool for most thoracic lesions. Important technological advances improve its diagnostic accuracy. Among disadvantages, the radiation dose that is delivered, and the frequent and potentially dangerous use of iodinated contrast media. Magnetic resonance which is also an evolving technique has still limited indications, i.e., the mediastinum or chest wall study. Transparietal ultrasound may be useful for the diagnosis of pleural effusion, at the bedside, whereas transoesophageal ultrasound is indicated in some particular conditions where the middle mediastinum is involved.