Imaging the Intensive Care Patient

Abstract

The intensive care patient presents a challenge to both the clinician and the radiologist. These patients may have more than one cardiopulmonary problem that may progress or regress — simultaneously or in opposite directions. Most cardiopulmonary problems are the results of disease originating in the thorax, but a significant number are secondary to disease beyond the thorax. The limited quality of portable radiographs adds to the diagnostic difficulty. Many cardiopulmonary problems appear radiographically similar [1]. Careful attention to the radiographic appearance for progression and regression of the abnormalities often leads to the correct diagnosis [2, 3]. Although not every intensive care patient requires computed tomography (CT), the liberal use of CT often results in a more rapid and more accurate diagnosis and direction for management.