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There are occasions when the patient's condition can create difficulties in obtaining
lung images. We have given some thoughts below on how to tackle the following issues -
A fully-ventilated patient from the ITU
A fully conscious patient but with a tracheostomy
 | Fully Ventilated Patient from the ITU
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Only limited views are possible since the patient will
often have iv lines, catheters, pumps etc and will be semi-conscious
A reservoir system is not possible. The Kr81m gas line
may connect 'in-circuit' via a 22mm 'T' piece to the inlet side of the patient's
respirator; however advice should be sought from the accompanying Doctor or Nursing
sister.
Only limited views will be possible. Anterior perfusion
and ventilation views should be feasible however posterior views will generally not be
possible. Additional views could include anterior oblique and lateral views
| Fully mobile patient
with a tracheostomy |
All standard views should
be possible
No reservoir system can be
used. The Kr81m gas line should be held directly at the opening of the tracheostomy
site.
It is possible to obtain a tracheostomy mask. In practice
there is little to be gained in image quality. However such a mask may reduce Kr81m
leakage into the room.
A fan should be used beside the patient to blow free
Kr81m gas away from the camera (take care that the force and direction of the fan does not
impede the flow of Kr81m gas at the tracheostomy)
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