How do you describe an abdominal X-ray?

Abdominal x-ray is a commonly performed diagnostic x-ray examination that produces images of the organs in the abdominal cavity including the stomach, liver, intestines and spleen. When an abdominal x-ray is performed to provide pictures of the kidneys, ureters and bladder, it’s called a KUB x-ray.

What can an abdominal X-ray tell you?

An abdominal X-ray may help to find the cause of abdominal pain or vomiting. It can sometimes detect kidney stones, an obstruction (blockage), a perforation (hole) in the intestines, or an abdominal mass such as a tumor. The image also can reveal small metal objects (such as coins) that might have been swallowed.

When is an abdominal erect image necessary?

The Royal College of Radiologists recommends that when a patient presents with an acute abdomen, a single supine abdominal radiograph is performed. If there is the clinical suspicion of an associated intra-abdominal perforation, then an erect chest radiograph should also be performed.

What anatomy must be seen when evaluating an AP erect view of the abdomen?

Evaluation criteria for a good AP projection The image should include the area from the upper border of the pubic symphysis to the diaphragm. Proper alignment — the vertebral column should be in the midline position. Ribs, pelvis, and hips should be equidistant to the edge of the radiograph.

What is the most common cause of small bowel obstruction?

Small bowel obstructions are usually caused by scar tissue, hernia, or cancer. In the United States, most obstructions occur as a result of prior surgeries. The bowel often forms bands of scar (called adhesions) after being handled during an operation.

What is an acute abdominal series?

Acute abdominal series is a set of abdominal radiographs obtained to evaluate bowel gas. The usual projections for this series are AP supine view (to estimate the amount of bowel gas or possible distension), PA erect view (to assess air-fluid levels), and PA erect chest radiograph (to rule out free air) .

Why is AP supine positioned in abdomen?

Indications. This view is useful in assessing abdominal pathologies, including bowel obstructions, calcifications and neoplastic changes. It is also used as a scout/baseline image for contrast studies of the abdomen (i.e. small bowel follow-through).

What are the warning signs of a bowel obstruction?

Signs and symptoms of intestinal obstruction include:

Crampy abdominal pain that comes and goes.
Loss of appetite.
Constipation.
Vomiting.
Inability to have a bowel movement or pass gas.
Swelling of the abdomen.

Can you still poop with a partial bowel obstruction?

You may have pain, nausea, vomiting, and cramping. Most of the time, complete blockages require a stay in the hospital and possibly surgery. But if your bowel is only partly blocked, your doctor may tell you to wait until it clears on its own and you are able to pass gas and stool.

What is an obstruction series xray?

When 2 or more of these views are taken, the set of films may be called an obstruction series. This series of X-rays is done to try to locate a site of a suspected blockage in the abdomen or intestine.

What are the signs and symptoms of an acute abdomen?

Gastrointestinal causes

Sudden onset of diffuse abdominal pain.
Nausea, vomiting.
Constipation/obstipation.
Diffuse abdominal guarding, rigidity, and rebound tenderness.
Absent bowel sounds.
Loss of liver dullness on RUQ percussion.

What is Fowler’s and supine?

Fowler’s position is commonly used for shoulder arthroscopy procedures. Surgical tables may be articulated to place patients in a seated position or shoulder chair (beach chair) accessories may be used as an alternative. The patient is placed supine on the operating table and general endotracheal anesthesia is induced.