Logo image
Interpretation of chest fluoroscopy: the risk of misdiagnosing atelectasis as pneumothorax due to greyscale inversion
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Interpretation of chest fluoroscopy: the risk of misdiagnosing atelectasis as pneumothorax due to greyscale inversion

C Y Lin, N B Cavanaugh, S Subramani, A K Singhal and S Hanada
Anaesthesia reports, Vol.12(1), e12307
01/2024
DOI: 10.1002/anr3.12307
PMCID: PMC11143383
PMID: 38827818
url
https://doi.org/10.1002/anr3.12307View
Published (Version of record) Open Access

Abstract

Anaesthetists may be required to work in hybrid theatres for procedures using fluoroscopic imaging. Adequate knowledge of fluoroscopic images allows prompt and effective emergency management of complications which arise during procedures. Here, we present a case of severe hypotension and hypoxia occurring shortly after induction of anaesthesia. Atelectasis was mistaken for a pneumothorax due to misinterpretation of fluoroscopic imaging, which demonstrated a dark pleural cavity peripheral to a partially collapsed left lung, leading to an incorrect diagnosis. This case highlights the importance of understanding greyscale inversion in fluoroscopy.
X‐rays radiograph atelectasis fluoroscopy pneumothorax UIOWA OA Agreement

Details

Metrics

Logo image