chest · AP (Lateral Decubitus)
Chest Lateral Decubitus
Patient lying on side (affected side down for fluid, up for air) on radiolucent pad, back against IR.
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How to perform this view
- 01
Place patient on side on radiolucent pad, raise chest 5-8 cm.
- 02
Raise both arms above head; flex knees.
- 03
Place vertical IR behind patient's back, top 4-5 cm above shoulders.
- 04
Keep patient in position 5 minutes for fluid/air to settle.
- 05
Use horizontal beam centred to T7, place 'decubitus' and side marker.
- 06
Expose on full inspiration.
Anatomical & patient position
Patient: Patient lying on side (affected side down for fluid, up for air) on radiolucent pad, back against IR.
Part: Coronal plane parallel to IR; arms raised above head; knees flexed for stability.
Central ray & centring point
Horizontal beam perpendicular to IR at T7 level.
Exposure factors
kVp
110-125 kVp
mAs
4-6 mAs
SID
180 cm
IR size
35 x 43 cm landscape (relative to patient)
Grid
Yes
Respiration
Full inspiration
Clinical indications
- Small pleural effusion (side down)
- Small pneumothorax (side up)
- Mobile vs loculated fluid
Contraindications & precautions
- Pregnancy (relative) - confirm LMP / 10-day rule, justify exposure and shield where possible
- Patient unable to lie on side due to pain/injury
Structures shown & evaluation criteria
- Entire lungs including dependent side
- Air-fluid level visible
- No rotation