Chest radiographs of cardiac devices (Part 1): Lines, tubes, non-cardiac medical devices and materials

Chest radiographs (CXRs) are the most common imaging investigations undertaken because of their value in evaluating the cardiorespiratory system. They play a vital role in intensive care units for evaluating the critically ill. It is therefore very common for the radiologist to encounter tubes, lines, medical devices and materials on a daily basis. It is important for the interpreting radiologist not only to identify these iatrogenic objects, but also to look for their accurate placement as well as for any complications related to their placement, which may be seen either on the immediate post-procedural CXR or on a follow-up CXR. In this article, we discussed and illustrated the routinely encountered tubes and lines that one may see on a CXR as well as some of their complications. In addition, we also provide a brief overview of other important non-cardiac medical devices and materials that may be seen on CXRs.