ABSTRACT
In recent years a great increase in demand for portable radiographic examinations has occurred. The position of i.v. catheters and endotracheal tubes needs to be checked often and frequent examinations may be required in infants with severe respiratory problems on ventilation.2
Portable X-ray machines have become smaller, more maneuverable and give shorter exposure times. Very good radiographs can now be obtained in critically ill or premature neonates in intensive or special care units without removing them from their incubators. This protects them from heat loss and allows minimal handling. It follows that incubators chosen for special or intensive care baby units should be user-friendly for radiography. A good example of not adhering to the earlier mentioned guidelines is in the case of taking inverted lateral radiographs for anorectal anomalies. The baby is removed from the incubator and held upsidedown by the legs while the exposure is taken. Even apart from the trauma to the infant, it is difficult to obtain a good true lateral view centered at the correct level. A prone lateral view with the buttocks elevated and using a horizontal X-ray beam is a far superior technique. The baby can be left comfortably in this position for a prolonged period to ensure that gas outlines the distal limit of the blind rectal pouch (Fig. 11.2).
