The chest radiograph in heart disease

Although the most frequently used imaging techniques to assess cardiac disease are the echocardiogram, coronary angiography, and more recently magnetic resonance imaging and multi-slice computed tomography, the conventional chest x-ray remains important in detecting and monitoring cardiac disease. The correct interpretation of the chest x-ray may allow the diagnosis of unsuspected congenital cardiac disease such as an atrial septal defect, or aortic coarctation, and may be used as an aid to confirm a diagnosis of left ventricular failure or to monitor its treatment.