What is an Abdominal X-ray?

• An x-ray (radiograph) is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. Imaging with x-rays involves exposing a part of the body to a small dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body.
• Abdominal x-ray produces pictures of the inside of the abdominal cavity. It is used to evaluate the stomach, liver, intestines and spleen and may be used to help diagnose unexplained pain, nausea or vomiting. When used to examine the kidneys, ureters and bladder, its called a KUB x-ray.
• Because abdominal x-ray is fast and easy, it is particularly useful in emergency diagnosis and treatment.

Why do I need an Abdominal X ray?

• Abdominal x-ray is often the first imaging test used to evaluate and diagnose the source of acute pain in the abdominal region and/or lower back as well as unexplained nausea and vomiting.
• Abdominal x-ray is also performed to help diagnose conditions such as:
• kidney and urinary bladder stones and gallstones
• intestinal blockages
• perforation of the stomach or intestine
• ingestion of foreign objects
• Abdominal x-ray may also be used to help properly place catheters and tubes used for feeding or to decompress organs such as the gallbladder and kidneys.

Any preparation needed?

• 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. 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. This is particularly important if you have taken Pepto-Bismol or another medication containing bismuth in the four days before the abdominal film. Bismuth can affect the clarity of the images, so your doctor needs to know if you’ve taken it.
In case of urinary tract X- ray (KUB):
These exam require some special preparations As bowel cleaning:
The bowel-cleansing regimen for KUB consist of :
• Smaller volume of cleansing liquid.
• Your diet will be restricted to clear liquids the day before the examination.
• It is very important to clean out your colon the night before your Exam.
• You will be asked to take either a set of pills and/or a liquid laxative.