Inspiration

This is to check whether the patient took a deep breath during the X-ray.

On good inspiration, 5 - 6 anterior ribs should be visible.

If more ribs are visible, this could indicate hyperinflation for example in the case of COPD.

If the patient was not able to take a deep breath, then there will be fewer ribs visible.

chest x-ray

CXR with anterior ribs marked.