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Abdominal x-ray

Definition

An abdominal x-ray is an imaging test to look at organs and structures in the abdomen. Organs include the spleen, stomach, and intestines.

When the test is done to look at the bladder and kidney structures, it is called a KUB (kidneys, ureters, bladder) x-ray.

Alternative Names

Abdominal film; X-ray - abdomen; Flat plate; KUB x-ray

How the Test is Performed

The test is done in a hospital radiology department. Or, it may be done in the health care provider's office by an x-ray technologist.

You lie on your back on the x-ray table. The x-ray machine is positioned over your abdominal area. You hold your breath as the picture is taken so that the picture will not be blurry. You may be asked to change position to the side or to stand up for additional pictures.

Men will have a lead shield placed over the testes to protect against the radiation.

How to Prepare for the Test

Before having the x-ray, tell your provider the following:

  • If you are pregnant or think you could be pregnant
  • Have an IUD inserted
  • Have had a barium contrast x-ray in the last 4 days
  • If you have taken any medicines such as Pepto Bismol in the last 4 days (this type of medicine can interfere with the x-ray)

You wear a hospital gown during the x-ray procedure. You must remove all jewelry.

How the Test will Feel

There is no discomfort. The x-rays are taken as you lie on your back, side, and while standing.

Why the Test is Performed

Your provider may order this test to:

Normal Results

The x-ray will show normal structures for a person your age.

What Abnormal Results Mean

Abnormal findings include:

  • Abdominal masses
  • Buildup of fluid in the abdomen
  • Certain types of gallstones
  • Foreign object in the intestines
  • Hole in the stomach or intestines
  • Injury to the abdominal tissue
  • Intestinal blockage
  • Kidney stones

Risks

There is low radiation exposure. X-rays are monitored and regulated to provide the minimum amount of radiation exposure needed to produce the image. Most experts feel that the risk is low compared to the benefits.

Pregnant women and children are more sensitive to the risks of the x-ray. Women should tell their provider if they are, or may be, pregnant.

Gallery

X-ray
X-rays are a form of ionizing radiation that can penetrate the body to form an image on film. Structures that are dense (such as bone) will appear white, air will be black, and other structures will be shades of gray depending on density. X-rays can provide information about obstructions, tumors, and other diseases, especially when coupled with the use of barium and air contrast within the bowel.
Digestive system
The esophagus, stomach, large and small intestine, aided by the liver, gallbladder and pancreas convert the nutritive components of food into energy and break down the non-nutritive components into waste to be excreted.

References

Tomei E, Cantisani V, Marcantonio A, D'Ambrosio U, Hayano K. Plain radiography of the abdomen. In: Sahani DV, Samir AE, eds. Abdominal Imaging. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2017:chap 1.

Last reviewed January 16, 2021 by Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team..

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