Unprepared abdominal X-ray technique

This is an automatically translated article.

The article is professionally consulted by MSc, BS. Dang Manh Cuong - Doctor of Radiology - Department of Diagnostic Imaging - Vinmec Central Park International General Hospital. The doctor has over 18 years of experience in the field of ultrasound - diagnostic imaging.
Abdominal X-ray technique is not prepared to investigate abdominal pathologies such as intestinal obstruction, free peritoneal cavity, perforated hollow viscera, tumor, calcification or contrast-enhanced foreign body in the abdomen...

1. What is an abdominal X-ray?

Unprepared abdominal radiograph is the first and most common diagnostic technique for patients presenting with persistent abdominal pain. Based on the results of X-ray films, doctors can diagnose many diseases of the intestine such as: Perforation of hollow viscera, free air in the peritoneal cavity, gas and fluid.
Indications for unprepared abdominal radiograph:
Intestinal obstruction Hollow visceral perforation Inflammation of the peritoneal cavity Abdominal injury.

2. Basic shooting positions of unprepared abdominal films

Upright pose: This pose is the simplest and most used. At that time, the patient stands upright, holds the abdomen close to the film, the X-ray comes from the back. Lying on the right or left side: The film is placed behind the back, the X-rays go from front to back. Supine position: X-ray goes from front to back, the film is placed behind the patient's back. Abdominal scan is not prepared, gas in the gastrointestinal tract is the natural reflector. At that time, the abdominal cavity without air is the abdomen with the gastrointestinal tract collapsed or filled with fluid, which is difficult to observe. Criteria for unprepared abdominal radiographs:
Film captures both diaphragms, as much of the pelvis as possible. The results clearly show the lumbar spine, two psoas muscles, two bands of paraperitoneal fat.

3. Procedure for performing unprepared abdominal X-ray technique

Below is the procedure for performing an unprepared abdominal radiograph:
3.1. Preparation of Executor
Specialist Doctor Electro-optical technician. Facilities
Specialized X-ray machine Film, film printer and storage system Patient
Patient removes metal objects on the abdomen as this may affect the scan results.
Note: In case the patient is pregnant, it is necessary to notify the doctor immediately to find the most suitable solution to avoid the influence of X-rays to the fetus.
Test card
There is an order to take an abdominal X-ray from the doctor

3.2 Steps to take X-ray of the abdomen The patient gives the X-ray paper to the doctor. The doctor identifies and compares the part to be scanned with the clinical diagnosis. The patient entered the imaging room. At the same time, the doctor explains the X-ray procedure for the patient to understand. The technician adjusts the shot and the shadow is 1m away from the photograph. The doctor instructs the patient to stand close to the abdomen against the photograph, with both hands hanging down. Technique to adjust the central ray on the line connecting the two iliac crests is about 3cm. Proceed to paste the letter (F) on the corresponding digital sensor plate to the right of the patient. Enter the patient's name and age into the computer, select the program corresponding to the part to be taken. Tuning technician (68kv, 14 mAs). The doctor asks the patient to stand still and hold their breath. Close the door of the examination room and give X-rays. The patient is directed to the waiting room to receive the results. The technician adjusts the contrast and checks the symmetry of the X-ray images. Print film Compare with satisfactory film standards. 3.3 Interpretation of the results The entire abdomen is seen from the superior border of the pubic joint to the diaphragmatic arch. Symmetrical results: Lumbar spine is symmetrical in the midline, ribs, iliac wings, and hip joints are symmetrical in the periphery. Non-motile results: The rib margin, diaphragm, and air bubble border are sharp. Soft vision: clearly see the border of the liver and kidney viscera and the outer border of the lumbar muscle. The film has the full name and age of the patient, the F - T mark and the date of the photo taken. The doctor analyzes the scan results and prints the film. In addition, the doctor can provide professional advice to the patient if he or she requires help. 3.4 Complications and management Abdominal X-ray technique has no complications.
During the imaging process, the image of the abdomen is not clear because the patient is not still, it may be necessary to repeat the technique again.

Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.

SEE MORE
Abdominal CT scan: What you need to know Indications of X-ray of the small intestine Measures to treat intestinal obstruction