Portable CXR
Formal Definition
A chest radiograph obtained at the bedside using a portable radiography unit, typically taken in the anteroposterior (AP) projection — used when a patient is too unstable or immobile to transport to the radiology department for a standard posteroanterior (PA) film.
How It's Used on the Ward
"Get a portable CXR" or "portable shows new infiltrates" — the bedside X-ray for any patient too sick to leave the unit.
Example
""Post-intubation: portable CXR ordered immediately to confirm ETT placement. Tube tip 3cm above the carina — good position. Also noted new right-sided infiltrate, likely aspiration pneumonia. Antibiotics broadened.""
Clinical Context
Portable AP CXR has inherent limitations vs. PA upright: the AP projection magnifies the cardiac silhouette (making cardiomegaly harder to judge), the patient often can't take a full breath (reducing lung volume), and film quality is lower. Despite this, portable CXR is essential for: ETT placement confirmation, central line positioning (tip should be at cavoatrial junction), pneumothorax, pulmonary edema, new infiltrates in unstable patients. Always note the projection and patient positioning when interpreting.
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