A chest X-ray can provide valuable information about the condition of your heart, lungs, and surrounding structures. Doctors often order them to investigate respiratory or cardiac symptoms or to check for damage after a chest injury. Chest X-rays are also useful for monitoring progress after surgery to the chest and ensuring proper placement of medical devices like pacemakers and defibrillators. Below are some of the features radiologists examine in chest X-rays and the conditions they may shed light on. Depending on the results, a chest X-ray may be followed up with additional imaging such as MRI, ultrasound, or CT.