What is abdominal series X-ray?
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) .
What are plain abdominal films?
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.
What is a 2 view abdominal X-ray?
A minimal acute obstructive series (for the purpose of ruling out small bowel obstruction) includes two views: typically, a supine view and an upright view (which are sufficient to detect air-fluid levels), although a lateral decubitus could be substituted for the upright.
What are the specific clinical indications for acute abdominal series?
The acute series is used for a variety of indications including: determine the amount of bowel gas, with possible bowel distention. assess air-fluid levels. query pneumoperitoneum.
What is the primary indication for an abdominal plain film?
Plain films of the abdomen are still used primarily to assess intestinal perforation (intraperitoneal air) or bowel obstruction or assessment for catheter placement. The plain radiograph is commonly used as a preliminary radiograph before other studies such as CT and barium enema.
What position of the abdomen shows the best air-fluid?
The stomach is in the left upper quadrant and usually has gas within it. An air-fluid level can be seen in the stomach on the upright and decubitus views….Bowel & other Organs: Stomach, small and large bowel.
| 3 cm | Small bowel |
|---|---|
| 9 cm | Cecum |
How long should a patient be up right before the erect radiograph of an acute abdomen series can be taken?
The patient should be positioned sitting upright for 10-20 minutes prior to acquiring the erect chest X-ray image. This allows any free intra-abdominal gas to rise up, forming a crescent beneath the diaphragm.
Which projection or position will best demonstrate free intraperitoneal air in the abdomen?
The most useful position for detecting free intraperitoneal air is the left lateral decubitus position.
What happens if you have free air in your abdomen?
The presence of free intra-abdominal gas usually indicates a perforated abdominal viscus. The most common cause is perforation of a peptic ulcer. Patients with such conditions need urgent surgery.