Normal contours of the cardiomediastinum on chest radiography

Last revised by Bálint Botz on 28 Jun 2021

A detailed understanding of the structures that make up the normal contours of the heart and mediastinum (cardiomediastinal contour) on chest radiography is essential if abnormalities are to be detected. 

Frontal view (PA/AP)

Right cardiomediastinal contour

From superior to inferior:

Left cardiomediastinal contour

From superior to inferior:

Lateral view

Anterior cardiomediastinal contour

From superior to inferior: 

Posterior cardiomediastinal contour

From superior to inferior:

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