Endotracheal Tube

Case 36

This radiograph demonstrates typical findings of septic emboli. There are multiple bilateral nodules, many with cavitation. Metastatic disease would be within the differential for this finding, though in practice the clinical history is typically quite useful to distinguish between these two entities; In this case, the patient is young with a history of drug abuse (suggesting endocarditis as a source) and presents with sepsis. In addition, this patient has medium bilateral pleural effusions. In the setting of septic emboli this is concerning for empyema. CT is usually confirmatory.

Support devices include a central venous catheter in the right internal jugular vein, an endotracheal tube in the mid trachea, and an enteric tube entering the stomach and terminating inferiorly beyond the border of the study.

Case 36 Read More »

Case 18

This radiograph shows hazy consolidation in the right lung base, with more subtle left lower lobe consolidation projecting over the heart. There is a displaced left mid-clavicular fracture. Lines and tubes include an endotracheal tube, an enteric tube, and an esophageal temperature probe which are all appropriately positioned. The distribution is typical for aspiration, with or without infection. Contusion is also a consideration in a trauma patient. In this case, the EMS report included witnessed aspiration which makes it the most likely etiology.

Case 18 Read More »

Case 16

This radiograph shows a malpositioned enteric tube which is looped in the oropharynx/hypopharynx and projects over the lower neck. There are a number of incidental findings including an appropriately positioned endotracheal tube, a loop recorder projecting over the left hemithorax, sternotomy wires with a prosthetic aortic valve, and a Watchman™ left atrial appendage occlusion device which is difficult to see on the default window and level. Linear subsegmental atelectasis is seen in the left lung base.

Case 16 Read More »

Case 15

This radiograph shows a malpositioned endotracheal tube in the right main bronchus with resultant atelectasis of the entire left lung. The heart is shifted toward the left side. This supports the diagnosis of atelectasis over a large pleural effusion, which would look similar except that the heart would shift to the contralateral side. An enteric tube is also seen entering the stomach and terminating inferiorly beyond the border of the study. EKG wires, bra clasps, and bra underwires are seen externally.

Case 15 Read More »