Correct!
2. The frontal chest radiograph shows a small metallic focus just posterior to the inferior sternum
The frontal chest radiograph shows “nearly” normal findings- the mediastinal contours appear normal, there is no asymmetric attenuation differences affecting the thorax, and no lung nodule is seen. Old left-sided rib fractures are present. However, one potentially significant abnormal finding is present- a small, linear, metallic fragment is seen projecting just posterior to the inferior sternum on the lateral chest radiograph, and can also be seen on the frontal image located at the level of the medial left diaphragm, seen “through” the heart (Figure 2).
Figure 2. Frontal and lateral chest radiography shows fairly normal findings, but a small, linear, metallic fragment (arrow) is faintly visible in the medial anterior left thorax, projecting in the inferior substernal region on the lateral radiograph, and medially on the frontal image.
Based on the appearance at chest radiography, where is the potential metallic focus most likely located? (Click on the correct answer to proceed to the third of eight panels)