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Case
Summary
Diagnosis: Left Lower Lobe Atelectasis
Clinical hints:
Commonly seen in ICU patients especially after bypass or
cardiac surgery. Mechanism not fully understood. If due to
aspiration or mucus plugging, need bronchoscopy.
Radiological Pearls:
- typical "sail sign" behind heart
- seen often after cardiac surgery
- left hemi-diaphragm silhouetted
- may be miscalled a left effusion
Films were kindly provided by Dr. W. J. Weiser.
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