Relevance of X - Ray Chest in Pre - Op Evaluation of Elective Surgical Patients

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Pre-operative Chest X-ray (CXR) is routinely ordered locally for patients above a certain age. This study examines the usefulness of such a practice and its clinical impact. METHODS: Prospective audit of 600 consecutive elective surgical patients over a one-year period, assessing the proportion and impact of abnormal CXR findings. RESULTS: The proportion of patients with abnormal CXR increased with worsening ASA status. There was little impact of routine pre-operative CXR on anaesthetic management. Only 10/590 CXR affected anaesthetic technique or choice of therapeutic procedure. CONCLUSION: Targeted investigations should be performed as indicated by clinical findings rather than on the basis of arbitrary age cut offs.