What am I looking at?

In order to recognize a pneumothorax, it is first important to note the following normal anatomic structures and their sonographic appearance (video 1).

Chest wall:

• Most superficial structure
• Hypoechoic with irregular fascial lines

Ribs:

• Oval, hyperechoic periosteum
• Dark shadow behind

Pleural line:

• Hyperechoic horizontal line
• Runs between and deep to the ribs

Lung:

• Deep to the pleural line
• Uniform grey haze

Video 1: Normal anatomy