Answer to Question 1
ANS: D
Pneumomediastinum, is a form of barotrauma, may result from movement of air into the medias-tinum, as may also be seen in cases of esophageal rupture (Figure 21-30). This usually occurs in the distal portion of the esophagus in patients who undergo procedures to stretch or dilate the esophagus. Chest trauma may cause rupture of a main bronchus, also allowing movement of air into the mediastinum. Rarely, air dissects down from the soft tissues of the neck after thyroid, parathyroid, or tonsillar surgery. Gas associated with a retrotonsillar abscess may also move down to the mediastinum through the fascial planes of the neck. Air that accumulates in the retroperi-toneum may enter the mediastinum via openings in the diaphragm for the aorta or esophagus.
Answer to Question 2
ANS: B
CT is the best type of imaging for assessing most mediastinal masses.
Color enhanced X-ray showing a pacemaker implanted in the left side of the chest and the electrode w
Chest X-ray. A physician is examining chest X-rays with the aid of a plastic model of the bronchial
Esophageal varix
EMERGENCY TRAUMA ASSESSMENT MADE EASY
Attributed to Thomas Dennis or William Searle, Chest, made in Ipswich, Massachusetts.
Pneumonia patient’s chest x-ray. Note the irregular areas of density.