Abdominal x-ray

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X-ray

An abdominal x-ray is an imaging test to look at organs and structures in the belly area, including the spleen, stomach, and intestines.

When the test is done to look at the bladder and kidney structures, it's called a KUB (kidneys, ureters, bladder) x-ray.

See: X-ray

Abdominal film; X-ray - abdomen; Flat plate; KUB x-ray

The 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.

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Inform 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. This type of medication 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.

There is no discomfort. The films are taken with you lying on your back, side, and while standing.

• Diagnose a pain in the abdomen or unexplained nausea
• Identify suspected problems in the urinary system, such as a kidney stone or blockage in the intestine
• Locate an object that has been swallowed

Review Date: 02/10/2010
Reviewed By: Linda Vorvick, MD, Family Physician, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).