Abdominal Film (X-Ray): Purpose, Procedure & Results

An abdominal plain film, also known as an abdominal X-ray, helps your doctor assess potential problems in your abdominal cavity, stomach, and intestines. Your doctor may perform this procedure to help detect a particular condition like kidney stones or gallstones.

Instead of generally imaging the entire abdominal area, your doctor may order a KUB X-ray, which is a variation of an abdominal film that focuses on the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. The procedure gets its name from the first letter of each of these body parts.

In this article, we’ll look closer at abdominal X-rays and discuss why they’re used, how they’re interpreted, possible risks, and more.

Your doctor might order an abdominal X-ray if you’re having one or more of the following symptoms:

• significant nausea
• ongoing vomiting
• abdominal pain
• flank or back pain
• abdominal swelling

Some of the following conditions may also be diagnosed with an abdominal X-ray:

• an abdominal aortic aneurysm
• Addison’s disease
• anemia (idiopathic aplastic or secondary aplastic)
• pancreatitis
• appendicitis
• ascariasis
• atheroembolic renal disease
• blind loop syndrome
• Echinococcus infection
• Hirschsprung’s disease
• intestinal pseudo-obstruction (primary or idiopathic)
• intussusception (in children)
• necrotizing enterocolitis
• nephrocalcinosis
• toxic megacolon
• a ureter injury
• Wilms’ tumor
• GI perforation

An abdominal film may also help your doctor locate the precise position of an object you’ve swallowed.

Alternatively, your doctor might use this test to make sure that a tube, like a suction or feeding catheter, is in the correct location. These are often placed to allow for drainage or the administration of fluids or gases.

Unless your doctor informs you otherwise, you won’t need to fast, change your diet, or do anything major to prepare for an abdominal film.

Tell your doctor if you’re pregnant. Abdominal films involve low levels of radiation and are typically not recommended for pregnant people. If you’re pregnant, your doctor will probably choose to do an ultrasound to avoid any risk to the fetus.

Tell your doctor about any medications you’re taking, especially if you’ve taken Pepto-Bismol or another medication containing bismuth in the 4 days before the abdominal film. Bismuth can affect the clarity of the images, so your doctor needs to know if you’ve taken it.

Inform your doctor if you’ve recently had an X-ray test that involved barium contrast material. Similar to the effect caused by bismuth in Pepto-Bismol, barium can prevent a clear picture in your abdominal film.

When you arrive at the office for your abdominal X-ray, you’ll need to remove any jewelry. You may also need to change into a hospital gown.

You’ll likely need to lie down on your back on a table. In some cases, you may need to lie on your side or even stand up instead. Depending on what your doctor is looking for, you might need to have X-rays taken from several angles, and you might be asked to change positions.

You must remain perfectly still during the X-ray. You may even need to hold your breath at certain points to ensure that your abdomen doesn’t move.

An abdominal film can reveal various issues in the abdomen. These include:

• a mass
• fluid buildup
• an injury
• a blockage
• a foreign object
• certain types of stones in the gallbladder, bladder, kidneys, or ureters

The film also allows your doctor to identify whether certain organs are enlarged or out of their proper position.

Remember that an abdominal film only lets your doctor see what’s going on in your abdomen. It doesn’t detect all possible problems or give definitive answers to all of your questions.

Your doctor will discuss the implications of any issues detected in the abdominal film. Some findings may require further tests.

An abdominal film is a low-risk procedure. You’ll be exposed to low levels of radiation, as radiation is required to take X-rays.

Depending on the reason for the abdominal film, you may feel pain or discomfort from lying on your back or side for the procedure.

An abdominal film is an X-ray of the abdomen. There are many reasons why a doctor may take an abdominal film, including to look at organs, find infections, diagnose pain, and look for growths.

An abdominal film doesn’t require much preparation and is typically easy and painless for most people. You’ll be exposed to a very low level of radiation, but an abdominal film is considered to be a low-risk procedure.

X-ray examinations – Better Health Channel

Summary

Read the full fact sheet

• An x-ray examination uses an electrical device to emit (put out) x-rays and digital technology to create two-dimensional pictures of internal body structures.
• This test is particularly useful in diagnosing conditions or diseases that affect the bones and chest.
• A conventional x-ray examination is non-invasive, painless and does not require any recovery time.
• The dose of radiation from an x-ray examination is considered safe – roughly the same as you would receive from the general environment in about one week.

An x-ray examination creates images of your internal organs or bones to help diagnose conditions or injuries. A special machine emits (puts out) a small amount of ionising radiation. This radiation passes through your body and is captured on a special device to produce the image.

The dose of radiation you will receive depends on the area of your body being examined. Smaller areas such as the hand receive a lesser dose compared to a larger area such as the spine. On average, the dose of radiation is roughly the same as you would receive from the general environment in about one week.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant. Another type of test may be recommended.

Radiographers and radiologists

The two types of health practitioners involved in x-ray examinations are:

• a radiographer who conducts the examination and is trained to create the best quality images as safely as possible
• a radiologist (a medical specialist) who is trained to interpret x-ray images.

How x-rays work

A small amount of ionising radiation is passed through the body. In the past, this went onto a sheet of special film. Nowadays x-ray examinations are more likely to use a device that will capture transmitted x-rays to create an electronic image.

The calcium in bones blocks the passage of radiation, so healthy bones show up as white or grey. On the other hand, radiation passes easily through air spaces, so healthy lungs appear black.

When x-ray examinations are used

This test is very common. About seven million x-ray examinations are made every year in Australia. Some of the many uses include:

• diagnosis of fractures – detection of broken bones is one of the most common uses of this test
• diagnosis of dislocations – an x-ray examination can reveal if the bones of a joint are abnormally positioned
• as a surgical tool – to help the surgeon accurately perform the operation. For example, x-ray images taken during orthopaedic surgery show if the fracture is aligned or if the implanted device (such as an artificial joint) is in position. X-rays may also be used in other surgical procedures for a similar purpose
• diagnosis of bone or joint conditions – for example, some types of cancer, arthritis or osteoporosis
• diagnosis of chest conditions – such as pneumonia, lung cancer, emphysema or heart failure
• detection of foreign objects – for example, metal fragments or swallowed coins.

Medical issues with x-ray examinations

Medical considerations prior to the procedure include:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant. Another type of test may be recommended.
• A conventional x-ray examination does not require any special preparation, other than possibly having to change into a hospital gown.
• Some x-ray examinations involve the use of an iodinated contrast agent (a type of dye). This substance helps to improve the detail of the images or to make it possible to see body structures such as the bowel or blood vessels. The hospital x-ray department or private x-ray clinic will give you instructions on how to prepare for the test and what to expect.

X-ray examination procedure

Depending on the part of your body being examined, you may be asked to undress, remove all jewellery and wear a hospital gown. During the basic procedure:

• The radiographer will instruct you in positioning for the x-ray. You may be asked to stand up, lie down or sit down.
• The radiographer will place you between the x-ray machine and the imaging device that captures the x-rays being transmitted through that part of your body.
• The radiographer may shield parts of your body with a lead apron. This is to reduce the risk of unnecessary exposure to radiation.
• The radiographer will need to touch you to position your body correctly for each picture.
• The radiographer operates the controls while each image is taken. To do this, they will stand behind a screen and call instructions to you if necessary.
• You may be asked to hold your breath for a couple of seconds as each picture is taken, so that the breathing movement doesn’t blur the images.
• A straightforward conventional x-ray examination, of the hand for example, usually takes a few minutes. Other types of x-ray examination may take longer.

Immediately after an x-ray

After the x-ray you can get dressed (if you changed out of your clothes) and wait for further instructions. A radiologist will interpret the x-ray images. The results are usually sent to your doctor, so you will need to make a follow-up appointment.

Complications from x-ray examinations

An x-ray examination is a painless and non-invasive procedure. You will not be radioactive after the test. The dose of radiation is considered safe – roughly the same as you would receive from the general environment in about one week.

There is a very small (negligible) increase in your risk of developing cancer within 10 years of the x-ray examination (less than 0.01 per cent increase). It is important to try and limit the number of x-rays you get over your life.

Taking care of yourself at home after an x-ray examination

A conventional x-ray examination does not require any recovery time. You can go about your normal business as soon as you leave. If you have had an examination that has used a contrast agent, you will be given specific instructions concerning any after care that may be necessary. This might involve drinking additional water, but the radiographer will advise you.

Treatment will vary depending on the condition under investigation and the results of the x-ray examination.

Alternatives to x-ray examination

Depending on the medical condition, alternatives to x-ray examinations may include:

• ultrasound – the use of sound waves to create a picture of internal body structures
• magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – the combination of a magnetic field and radio waves to produce three-dimensional pictures
• computed tomography scan (CT scan) – the use of x-rays and digital computer technology to create three-dimensional pictures
• bone density testing – a procedure to determine bone strength. A range of medical procedures is available.

Where to get help

• Your referring GP (doctor)
• Radiographer
• NURSE-ON-CALL Tel. 1300 60 60 24 – for expert health information and advice 24 hours, 7 days

• X-rayExternal Link, Healthcare Imaging Services.
• X-raysExternal Link, Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency.
• Ionising radiation and healthExternal Link, Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency.
• Routine x-rayExternal Link, Steinberg Diagnostic Medical Imaging Centres US.

This page has been produced in consultation with and approved
by:

x-ray of the kidneys with contrast – MEDSI

x-ray of the kidneys is a radiation method of research designed to assess the anatomical structure and functional state of the urinary system. One of the most common methods for examining patients with suspected urolithiasis.

What is it?

The method is based on the ability of X-rays to pass through the tissues of the body, the degree of density of which determines the degree of darkening (the so-called shadow) in the finished image. Given the harmful effects of ionizing radiation on the body, the intensity of the rays is strictly dosed, and the procedure is carried out only for medical reasons.

Kidney X-ray: indications for examination

• Urolithiasis or suspicion of it
• Chronic kidney disease (for the purpose of observation and control of treatment)
• Diagnosis of tumors, metastases
• Injuries of the pelvic, lumbar region
• Postoperative control
• Significant abnormalities in the analysis of urine: hematuria (blood in the urine), proteinuria (protein in the urine), pathological changes in odor, color, density and clarity of urine
• Pain in characteristic localization (lumbar region and lower abdomen), renal colic
• Painful urination
• Suspicion of obstruction (obturation) of the urinary tract, urinary retention, swelling of the eyelids and face
• Hypertension
• Ultrasound update

X-ray (urography) of the kidneys: types of examination

• Plain X-ray of the kidneys – an image in frontal projection without contrast agent. Allows you to assess the location, shape and number of kidneys, the state of the skeletal system of nearby areas, large foci of inflammation, necrosis, tumors, large calcium stones
• Excretory urography – an x-ray of the kidneys with a contrast agent. Allows you to evaluate the excretory (excretory) functions of the kidneys: the state of the pyelocaliceal system, the integrity and patency of the urinary tract; performed in two or more projections
• Direct pyelography – injection of contrast through a catheter from the lower urinary tract or through a nephropyelostomy directly into the kidney. Performed in hospital

Contrast urography

The most informative, simple and inexpensive method of examination. It can be performed on an outpatient basis: immediately after the procedure, the patient goes home. The main advantage is the introduction of an iodine-based contrast agent, which, as it is filtered by the glomerular system and excreted through the urinary tract, highlights various areas in the image.

What will a kidney x-ray show?

The method allows to determine:

• Anatomical features of the organ structure: quantity, location, shape, size, uniformity, integrity
• Functional features: the rate of filtration and excretion of the substance, the filling of the pelvicalyceal system inside the kidney, the diameter and patency of the urinary tract
• Foreign inclusions: the presence of calculi (stones), foreign damaging particles (bone fragments after injury, splinters)
• Tumor, size, extent, presence of metastases

How is the procedure?

The patient is injected with a contrast agent, after which 3 images are taken at strictly defined time intervals: the first one is 5–7 minutes after injection, the second one is 15–17 minutes later, the third one is 20–23 minutes later. Thus, the picture captures the contrast in the pelvicalyceal system, then in the ureter, and finally in the bladder.

How to prepare for a kidney x-ray

• Before being referred for an examination, the doctor prescribes tests to rule out kidney failure. Some drugs should not be taken; allergic history is important, if it is present, consultation with an allergist is necessary
• 3 days before the procedure, gas-producing foods are excluded from the diet
• On the eve of the procedure (in the morning, on an empty stomach), a cleansing enema is recommended if constipation is present. The study is carried out on an empty stomach
• Before the procedure, the patient removes metal jewelry, watches, prostheses, belt and sits on the couch in light clothing without fasteners. Areas not included in the study are covered with lead apron

Renal X-ray contraindications

Only pregnancy is a contraindication to X-ray, other restrictions apply to the administration of contrast:

• Allergy to iodine-containing preparations
• History of hypersensitivity reactions
• Asthma
• Decompensated renal failure
• Heart failure not compensated
• Collapse, shock, coma
• Use of certain hypoglycemic agents
• Pregnancy and lactation
• Age less than a week from birth

Possible side effects of kidney x-ray with contrast

The most common are allergic reactions. Also, during the introduction of contrast, there may be: a short-term feeling of heat, nausea and an unusual taste in the mouth.

Benefits of the procedure at MEDSI

• Availability of the latest generation of X-ray machines that allow individual exposure
• Equipment and technical capabilities of the equipment provide more than 50 types of X-ray examinations
• The images are described by radiologists with extensive practical experience
• Emergency x-ray available for trauma, acute conditions
• X-rays for children of different ages

In some MEDSI clinics, an appointment for X-rays is not required. To clarify the details, call the round-the-clock phone + 7 (495) 7-800-500

Do not delay treatment, contact a doctor now:

• Urologist appointment

X-ray examination of the child’s chest

Radiography is an informative and inexpensive method of radiation examination. Having passed ionizing rays through the area under study, the device produces a black-and-white image, in which tissues of different density receive a different shade: the denser the tissue, the more rays it retains and reflects, the brighter the shadow in the image (example: bone structures of the chest are visible on x-rays as white, lung tissue is dark). Thus, it is possible to detect seals or gaps in uncharacteristic places, which makes it possible to suspect the presence of a neoplasm or a violation of the integrity of the organ.

Advantages: non-invasiveness, accessibility (X-rays are available in all major clinics), speed of conduction, obtaining a picture that can be presented to different doctors upon request.

Why is X-ray harmful?

One of the few disadvantages of the method is its radioactivity. Large doses of radiation can provoke changes in the structure of cells and serve as an impetus for the development of tumors, malignancy of hyperplasia. Therefore, exposure is strictly dosed – the study is rarely carried out more than 3 times a year.

This is why, unlike adults, children do not undergo fluorography: increased cell division in childhood increases the risk of developing oncopathologies.

Only by carefully evaluating the balance of harm and benefit, the doctor may order a chest x-ray of the child.

When can a procedure be prescribed?

• If serious diseases of the lungs and bronchi are suspected: pneumonia, obstructive bronchitis, asthma, tuberculosis, abscess, pleurisy, tumors
• To assess the state of the thymus (thymus gland) in case of suspected tumor, the presence of problems with immunity
• After trauma with a high probability of dislocations, fractures, pneumothorax, hemothorax, the presence of traumatic foreign bodies
• With symptoms of asphyxia (suffocation) to detect the cause of obturation (blockage) of the trachea, examination of vessels for damage or the presence of blood clots
• When planning an operation for a child with cardiac pathologies

Performing x-ray diagnostics

X-ray of the lungs of a child should not be performed on adult equipment, as it requires a reduction in the radiation dose. Modern digital devices for pediatric use allow minimizing radiation exposure, and in addition, they are adjusted to children’s dimensions and are equipped with special non-traumatic fixators.

The procedure is quick:

Young children are restrained vertically with a restraint or examined lying down with padded straps on the couch. Body parts not involved in the study are covered with a lead apron of the appropriate size.

• Infant may be held by the mother, who is also provided with an apron for protection
• Adult children who are able to remain still for the required time are examined while standing

The procedure takes no more than a few seconds. It is important to remain completely still in a given position for this time in order to obtain a clear image.

Types of X-ray examinations

In addition to static radiography, there are other methods of X-ray examination.

• Fluorography – photograph of a picture from a fluorescent screen, depicting the examined organ in a reduced form
• Fluoroscopy (X-ray television transillumination) – demonstrates the organ on the screen in real time. Previously, fluorescent screens were used to show the image of the organ. With the development of digital technologies, the image began to be broadcast on the monitor, and also stored on a digital medium. The radiation dose during fluoroscopy is higher than with radiography, but the method is indispensable for some manipulations, as it allows you to observe instantaneous changes in the organ (during bronchoscopy, some operations)
• Computed tomography – allows you to examine the structures of the organ in detail, cross-sectional. Some operations are also performed under CT guidance. However, up to 7 years, the study is performed under anesthesia, as the patient is required to lie still for 15–20 minutes

These chest x-ray methods for a child are performed strictly according to indications (for example, in cardiac surgery).

How often can an x-ray be taken?

Unlike radioactive substances, rays do not accumulate in the body, the effect of radiation stops with the procedure. Therefore, when performing an x-ray of the lungs of a child, a single dose of radiation, the duration and frequency of exposures will matter.

X-ray exposure is measured in Sieverts and averages between 0.1 and 0.42 millisieverts per image (chest CT about 7 mSv). Digital devices allow you to further reduce the dose.

At the same time, according to the recommendations of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, the maximum annual radiation dose should not exceed 1 mSv per year on average (over the next 5 years) and maximum over 1 year – 5 mSv.

Thus, X-ray diagnostics of the chest can be carried out without harm to health from 3 to 10 times a year (depending on the settings of the apparatus, the age and health of the child).

Advantages of the procedure at MEDSI

• Availability of the latest generation digital devices for children with comfortable fixation devices – safe examination in a calm environment
• Visit at your convenience
• Image interpretation by experienced diagnosticians
• Possibility of having a procedure and visiting a pulmonologist, phthisiatrician or pediatrician with examination results in the same place

To make an appointment, call the round-the-clock phone number 8 (495) 7-800-500.