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 Abdominal film   DefinitionAbdominal films are x-ray images of the abdomen. Alternative NamesAbdominal x-ray; X-ray - abdomen; Flat plate; KUBHow the test is performedThe test is performed in a hospital radiology department or 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. How to prepare for the testInform the health care provider if you are pregnant, have an IUD inserted, or have had a barium contrast media x-ray in the last 4 days. If you have taken any medications such as Pepto Bismol (which contains bismuth) within 4 days mention it to the health care provider, because they may interfere with the test. You wear a hospital gown during the x-ray procedure. You must remove all jewelry. You must sign an informed consent form. How the test will feelThere is no discomfort. The films are taken with you lying on your back, side, and while standing. Why the test is performedThe abdominal x-ray can help identify suspected problems in the urinary system such as a kidney stone or a blockage in the intestine. The x-ray can locate an object that has been swallowed. The x-ray may also help in diagnosing a pain in the abdomen or unexplained nausea. Normal ValuesThe x-ray will show normal structures for a person your age. What abnormal results meanAbnormal findings include:
Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:
What the risks areThere 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 with the benefits. Pregnant women and children are more sensitive to the risks of the x-ray. Women should tell the health care provider if they are, or may be, pregnant. Special considerationsThe test is not usually recommended for pregnant women. The ovaries and uterus cannot be shielded during the abdominal x-ray because of their location. Men should have a lead shield placed over the testes to protect against the radiation. ImagesReferences
Reviewed by: Nikheel S. Kolatkar, MD, Clinical and Research Fellow, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Review date: 2005-05-17 A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission www.urac.org. URAC's accreditation program is the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audit. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial process. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics www.hiethics.com and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation www.hon.ch. The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Adam makes no representation or warranty regarding the accuracy, reliability, completeness, currentness, or timeliness of the content, text or graphics. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2005, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.  |
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