An abdominal x-ray is a radiation diagnostic method that is widely used to study the condition of internal organs. It is based on the ability of X-rays to pass through dense tissues of the body. This makes it possible to evaluate morphological and functional changes in organs and tissues and identify the presence of foreign bodies and tumors.

X-ray of the abdominal organs does not replace other diagnostic methods, including clinical examination. It significantly supplements them with objective data, thereby helping to make a more accurate and quick diagnosis. X-ray diagnostics is carried out using 2 methods:

1. Radiography. This method of x-ray examination allows you to observe changes in organs using x-ray images obtained on photosensitive film.
2. X-ray. This technique gives an idea of ​​pathological processes through X-ray images obtained on a luminous screen.

Radiography

Abdominal X-rays are divided into 2 types: plain and contrast. The abdominal cavity is a space separated from the sides by the abdominal muscles, from the back by the lower back, from the front by the peritoneum, from below by the iliac bones of the pelvis and from above by the muscles of the diaphragm. It includes the following systems and organs:

• organs of the digestive system: stomach, intestines, esophagus, gall bladder, liver and pancreas;
• organs of the genitourinary system: bladder, kidneys, ureters, ovaries, testes, prostate gland, uterus and ovaries.

Plain radiography of the abdominal organs is a standard research method that does not require the presence of special contrast agents. This method makes it possible to determine:

1. distribution of fluid and gases in the abdominal cavity;
2. the presence of foreign bodies (conglomerates in the kidneys and gall bladder, accidentally swallowed objects);
3. presence of internal bleeding;
4. existing internal damage.

Indications for examination

A survey radiography of the abdominal cavity is prescribed by a specialist if the patient has complaints of unbearable pain in the abdominal area. This condition may indicate the following diseases:

• pancreatitis;
• cholecystitis;
• various tumors;
• intestinal obstruction;
• nephrolithiasis;
• diverticulitis;
• hepatic and biliary colic;
• the presence of stones in the kidneys and gall bladder;
• inflammation in the abdominal area;
• appendicitis;
• polyps;
• injuries.

In case of emergency care, the patient is initially given a survey x-ray. It allows the doctor to have a general idea of ​​the condition of the body in order to carry out further diagnostics and prescribe the correct treatment. This method is especially valued in the practical work of emergency medicine due to the simplicity and speed of obtaining results.

Performing an abdominal x-ray procedure

The procedure can be performed in a standing or lying position, depending on the patient's condition. In addition, in some cases an image in two projections is required. Most often, x-rays are taken only in a standing position, since in this position it is better to understand the localization of some problems. There is no need to remove clothing, but it is recommended to remove metal objects.

The patient sits near the X-ray machine, and the specialist adjusts the position of the device in accordance with the patient’s height. While the rays are passing through the body, you cannot move (this lasts no more than 2 minutes). The X-ray will be ready almost immediately, and the doctor will report the results of the examination. The conclusion must be made by a qualified radiologist, and the final diagnosis is made by the clinician who referred the patient for the procedure. It is not recommended to take x-rays several times over a short period of time, since there is a certain radiation exposure.

No special preparation is required to carry out emergency diagnostics. If the examination is planned, the doctor advises to first cleanse the intestines of feces and gas accumulation. This is necessary to ensure that there are no extraneous shadows that make it difficult to process the results. For this purpose, a cleansing enema or taking the drug Fortrans is prescribed on the eve of the procedure.

For patients suffering from excessive gas formation or a tendency to constipation, there are recommendations to switch to a 3-day diet before the study. At this time, you should not eat some foods that contribute to the production of gases: raw vegetables and fruits, beans, milk, dark varieties of bread. It is advisable to include pasta, cereals and meat in your diet. On the day of the examination, only tea is allowed for breakfast. The diet should be accompanied by taking charcoal tablets.

Contrast X-ray

A survey image is not always sufficiently informative, since tissues and air cavities that are not very dense do not reflect X-rays, and the image is unclear. To identify the pathology of hollow formations and structures with low density, a contrast radiograph is used.

Barium sulfate is used as a contrast agent. It is given to drink as a flavored suspension or administered through a tube. The barium solution spreads into all cavities that are not visualized by plain x-ray. The contrast agent does not dissolve in water, transmits rays well, is not absorbed in the stomach and intestines and does not enter the blood. The drug is excreted from the body in feces within 24 hours.

In addition to barium sulfate, nitric oxide is sometimes used, as well as water-soluble contrast agents. This is allowed in cases where there is a suspicion of a violation of the integrity of internal organs. If barium sulfate enters the abdominal cavity, it can lead to complications such as peritonitis. Also, contrast X-rays are not used for exacerbation of ulcerative colitis, dehydration and existing bronchial asthma.

Contrast X-rays can be performed dynamically, tracking the movement of the solution through the cavity. The average duration of the procedure is 2 hours. This method is indispensable for examining the genital organs, allowing one to determine the presence of tumors, foci of inflammation, and damage to the mucous membranes.

X-ray

An X-ray image gives an idea only of the structure of the organ being examined. To assess the functional state and dynamics (contractions, extensibility), the fluoroscopy method is used. In this case, the image is displayed on a special screen (fluorescent). It is a sheet of thick cardboard coated with a special composition. Increasingly, devices are used that are designed in such a way that the image is visible on the monitor screen. You can print it later.

The procedure takes about 10 minutes. It is painless and fast. It is possible to store images on electronic media. Unlike an x-ray, a three-dimensional image is produced, which makes it possible to more accurately determine the location of pathological processes.

It is worth knowing that this method has a higher level of radiation exposure and cannot be performed frequently. In addition, this type of examination does not make it possible to identify small details of pathological processes, and it happens that some painful conditions go unnoticed. In this regard, the fluoroscopy method cannot be used as a preventive study.

Since over the last 2 decades, progressive gastrointestinal diseases have become more common in people, when the corresponding symptoms appear, doctors prescribe their patients a time-tested research method called abdominal x-ray. This type of medical non-invasive manipulation is based on the effect of ionizing rays on the body, which “transparent” a certain area of ​​the body and reflect the patient’s condition at the current moment in time, visualizing the most important structures - organs and tissues.

Main types of diagnostics

At the moment, the study is divided into only three main types, each of which is widely used in medical practice:

Progress of the procedure

As soon as the patient removes metal objects and decorative elements, he should position himself near the device, the position of which will be adjusted by the radiologist in accordance with the person’s height. After preparing the device, the specialist goes to his own separate office and adjusts its individual settings. Then the X-rays will begin to have a localized effect on the body, at this moment it is necessary to remain static - this will allow you to obtain the most reliable image.

If you need to hold your breath for a few seconds, the doctor will warn you about this. Since X-rays are a two-dimensional (flat) image, a second scan may be required with the body in a horizontal position. This approach allows you to study a medical problem in several perspectives, which increases the likelihood of a correct diagnosis.

Before the examination, you do not need to take off your clothes, but in some cases you will need to expose your stomach: you must first put on a loose jacket that can be easily lifted

When the examination results are ready, they are transmitted either to the patient or to the clinician. If an X-ray with contrast is required, before the actual start of the study, the person will be given a container with a suspension, which should be drunk to the bottom. Often, this radiopaque substance is barium sulfate, which has excellent throughput. The chemical element is insoluble in water, and therefore does not penetrate into the cellular structures of the gastrointestinal tract and is not absorbed into the blood.

The contrast is painlessly eliminated from the body naturally over the next 12–24 hours. Sometimes barium sulfate is replaced with another substance, for example, nitric oxide. This happens at the slightest suspicion of the presence of foci of perforation (through holes) in the internal organs, since the more common contrast drug, when it enters the abdominal cavity, can cause peritonitis, which can be fatal.

Before taking an x-ray using a contrast solution, you should find out whether there is an individual intolerance to its components.

Object of study

X-ray diagnostics allows you to determine the structural features and location of such organs as

• spleen;
• prostate;
• ureters;
• pancreas;
• intestines;
• ovaries;
• testes;
• liver;
• uterus;
• kidneys;
• gallbladder and bladder;
• stomach.

An overview X-ray image can also show the diaphragm, heart, lower part of the lungs, and free pairs of ribs. Fluoroscopy, in addition, reveals the dynamics of development - displacement, extensibility and contraction of the heart muscle and other types of organs and tissues.

Indications for use

An X-ray of the abdominal organs is extremely necessary for those who have:

• abscess;
• polyps;
• pain in the lower back or abdomen;
• tumor process;
• suspicion of injury to any organs;
• diverticulitis;
• cysts;
• intestinal obstruction;
• chronic bloating, etc.

Sharp pain in the right quadrant of the abdomen is a reason to urgently consult a doctor and undergo an x-ray: this symptom may indicate inflammation of the appendix

A survey x-ray should be taken at least once a year to prevent gastrointestinal diseases.

Main contraindications

The procedure using ionizing radiation is characterized by an almost complete absence of contraindications. X-rays are prescribed even if a person has implants, piercings and tattoos, which is impossible with MRI. However, two categories of people should not visit the X-ray room without special circumstances: pregnant women, minors under the age of 12 years.

If necessary, expectant mothers will most likely be prescribed alternative diagnostic methods - ultrasound or MRI. After all, X-ray radiation will focus specifically on the abdominal region of the body, where the developing fetus is located. Since the consequences of X-ray exposure on the baby are officially considered unstudied, this diagnosis should be neglected until the end of the gestation period.

If a person suffers from dehydration (dehydration), cystic fibrosis or bronchial asthma, the possibility of undergoing the study must be discussed in advance with the treating doctor. X-rays are not performed on children at all, since the radiation dose from the device significantly exceeds the usual daily norm.

What does an x-ray show?

A doctor with the proper level of qualifications will be able to detect the following diseases and phenomena on an x-ray:

• tumors at any stage of development;
• appendicitis;
• inflammatory process (peritonitis, cholecystitis, etc.);
• nephrolithiasis (formation of kidney stones);
• pancreatitis;
• polyps;
• internal hematomas;
• abnormal structure of hollow organs;
• cholelithiasis;
• polycystic disease;
• diverticulitis;
• intestinal obstruction;
• various injuries;
• biliary and hepatic colic.

On the X-ray images, Kloiber's cups are visualized on the left, and the crescent sign on the right

In a young child, using X-rays, you can determine the location of swallowed foreign objects: coins, buttons, needles, beads, nuts, etc. Sometimes a specialist can detect quite dangerous phenomena on photosensitive film: Kloiber's cups and the crescent sign.

The sickle symptom is an accumulation of free air caused by a violation of the integrity of one of the sections of the gastrointestinal tract. Externally, it is a lightened crescent-shaped spot, which is most often located under the right dome of the diaphragm - the muscular septum separating the abdominal cavity from the chest. Kloiber's bowls resemble bowl-shaped two-layer elements filled not only with gases, but also with liquid.

If the number of vertically oriented spots prevails in the image, then the patient has obstruction of the large intestine, and if horizontal, then obstruction of the small intestine. Both cases considered indicate the presence of extremely advanced pathologies, which after X-rays should be eliminated as soon as possible.

Stages of preparation for radiography

If a person is urgently admitted to the hospital, special preparation for an x-ray is not required. In the case of a scheduled examination, it is worth taking care in advance to cleanse the body of toxins, which are reflected in the image in the form of unnecessary shadows, making it difficult to make a diagnosis. 2-3 days before the x-ray, beans, confectionery, raw fruits and vegetables, milk, and fast food should be excluded from the diet.

This product causes gases to appear in the intestines, which also “smear” the image on the film. You should drink enough clean water and simple meals. On the eve of the study, it is advisable to do a cleansing enema. The use of strong laxatives, for example, Guttalax and Bisacodyl, is discussed individually with the doctor.

The diet involves unlimited consumption of slimy porridges and creamy soups

Where can I get an abdominal x-ray?

After the patient receives a referral for an x-ray from a nephrologist, gastroenterologist, endocrinologist or urologist, it is worth finding out about the availability of specialized centers equipped with the necessary devices at their place of residence. You need to pay attention not only to the price of an x-ray, but also directly to the category of the medical institution, the qualifications of the doctors and the model of the equipment used for scanning.

Also, do not neglect reviews on the Internet and the opinions of familiar people. If the previously chosen clinic is characterized extremely negatively by former patients, you should refuse to visit it. Even if the stumbling block becomes a financial issue (in the case of paid centers), it is better to save the required amount of money and maintain your health than to lose it due to your own stinginess.

Cost of examination

Since each region of Russia has different price indicators, the cost of research in different cities varies significantly. As a rule, a person will need to pay from 350 to 2100 rubles for an x-ray of the abdominal organs. In the Moscow region, the price can reach 3,000 rubles. It is worth keeping in mind that interpretation of the x-ray is also included in the total cost. If the doctor has given the patient a referral for the procedure, then it will be carried out at the expense of compulsory medical insurance (i.e., free of charge).

If a doctor at a private clinic insists on paid x-rays in their institution, without particularly justifying his choice, it is recommended to consult with independent doctors before agreeing to radiation diagnostics

Differences and advantages of CT and X-ray

In fact, computed tomography is also a type of research based on the use of X-rays. Only when scanning does the image reflect the state of the organs in several sections and projections, which allows you to view a particular area of ​​the body from the necessary angles. Although CT is more informative, it has not managed to displace classical x-rays from medical practice, which has some advantages:

• a high level of safety (the radiation dose is 10–20 times lower than with tomography);
• low cost;
• accessibility for the majority of the population.

Moreover, X-rays best visualize bone tissue, and CT scans best visualize the structure of bones, adjacent vessels, organs and soft tissues. In order to make the right choice, you should consult in advance with a specialist of a certain profile, and then adhere to his recommendations, developed on the basis of the patient’s individual indicators.

Abdominal X-ray is an examination of the abdominal organs that allows you to assess the condition of the stomach, liver, spleen, intestines and diaphragm. Abdominal x-rays can also detect some bladder and kidney problems. Most often, two x-rays are taken from different angles.

X-rays are made possible by special radioactive beams that can penetrate most objects, including the human body. The image obtained using x-rays is developed on film or displayed on a computer screen. Dense tissues, such as bones, block more radiation, which is why they appear white on an X-ray. Less dense tissues - such as internal organs - block less X-rays, so they appear gray.

Abdominal x-ray- one of the first tests that will help identify the cause of abdominal pain or bloating, nausea or vomiting. Intravenous pyelography, CT scan, or abdominal ultrasound are used for further investigation.

Our clinic has specialized specialists on this issue.

(4 specialists)

2. Why perform an X-ray examination of the abdominal cavity and preparation for the examination

An X-ray of the abdominal organs is performed to:

• Find out the cause of pain or bloating.
• Find out the cause of pain in the lower back or side.
• Find out the location of the liver, kidneys and spleen.
• Detect stones in the kidneys, gall bladder and other organs.
• Detect an object swallowed or accidentally introduced into the abdominal cavity.
• Check the location of medical instruments (drainage tubes, catheters, shunts).

Preparing for an abdominal x-ray

Before having an abdominal x-ray, consult your doctor. Women should tell their doctor if they are pregnant. X-ray examination of organs can negatively affect the fetus, so an abdominal ultrasound is usually performed instead.

Before the procedure itself, you will be asked to remove all jewelry and piercings: they may be in the path of the x-rays. It is better to undergo an abdominal x-ray with an empty bladder.

3. How is an X-ray examination of the abdominal cavity performed?

Abdominal x-rays are taken and interpreted by special doctors (radiologists), although many other doctors can also do this.

During the procedure, you will need to remove your clothing and lie on your back. Sometimes a special apron is placed on the pelvic area to protect against radioactive radiation. The internal genital organs of women, however, cannot be protected with its help, because... are too close to the abdominal organs.

While the x-ray is being taken, you will need to hold your breath and lie still. The procedure is absolutely painless and will not cause you any discomfort.

Often two x-rays are taken: in a vertical (standing) and horizontal (lying) position. An upright X-ray allows you to see a perforation of the stomach or intestines.

An x-ray of the abdomen may be done at the same time as a chest x-ray.

An abdominal x-ray is performed quickly - the procedure takes from 5 to 10 minutes.

4. Risks of X-rays and what you should know about?

Remember that with any x-ray, there is a small chance of radiation damaging tissue or cells. But in the vast majority of cases, the procedure does not cause any harm to health.

What's worth knowing?

The results of abdominal x-rays taken at different times may vary slightly depending on the equipment and where you had them. As a rule, X-ray examination is only the first step towards identifying diseases of the abdominal organs. To accurately diagnose the disease, endoscopy, CT, MRI, abdominal ultrasound, intravenous pyelography or other tests may be needed. Don't forget that An abdominal x-ray may not detect many diseases, for example, a bleeding stomach ulcer.

Unlike the classic X-ray survey radiography is a more informative study. A diagnostician evaluates the condition of not only the liver or kidneys, but all organs at once abdominal cavity. It is possible to evaluate the individual nuances of the location of organs and recognize existing pathological processes.

Computed tomography is based on the same principles as x-ray: Using ionizing radiation, various areas of the human body are scanned. Dignity plain radiography the fact that the method accurately visualizes bone tissue and is safer for health due to minimal radiation exposure to the body. In addition, X-ray diagnostics are cheaper and accessible to most patients.

Indications for x-ray of the peritoneal organs

Survey radiography carried out in the following cases:

Injuries, injuries and wounds in the abdominal area.

Acute pain in abdominal cavity.

Urolithiasis or cholelithiasis.

Alarming symptoms characteristic of appendicitis.

Penetration of foreign objects, presence of intestinal obstruction, volvulus of the cecum or small intestine.

Complaints of constant bloating and increased gas formation.

Ischemic colitis and other pathological conditions.

Contraindications

X-ray the abdominal region is not performed with caution and is performed in the following cases:

1. Women during pregnancy and nursing mothers.

At this time, diagnostics using ionizing radiation are prescribed in exceptional cases. This is due to the fact that the consequences of exposure x-ray on the baby have not been fully studied.

2. Children under 12 years old.

Radiation can negatively affect a child's development. If possible, use alternative research methods.

Patients with a history of bronchial asthma, cystic fibrosis and other serious pathologies, take an x-ray only after consultation with your doctor. The presence of piercings, iron implants, or tattoos is not a contraindication to the procedure.

Procedure technique

Before diagnostic manipulation, the patient must remove chains and other metal jewelry from the area being examined. It is necessary to stand upright at the device and follow the instructions of the diagnostician; the device is first adjusted taking into account the patient’s height. The specialist makes the necessary settings and controls the process from a separate office.

When the body is exposed to ionizing radiation, a person must be motionless; only then can the most accurate images be obtained. If necessary, the diagnostician asks you to hold your breath for a couple of seconds. It may be necessary to take photographs in different positions of the body to obtain images of the organs. abdominal cavity were in different projections. Lying down radiography carried out for the purpose of optimal review of through defects in the intestines or stomach. The finished radiographs are transferred to the patient or the attending physician.

Answers to frequently asked questions

What does a survey x-ray of the peritoneum show?

A radiologist is able to identify the following pathological diseases:

tumor processes in the gastrointestinal tract;

acute intestinal obstruction, hepatic colic and other pathological processes.

In what cases is an x-ray of the peritoneum performed in children?

When various objects get inside. X-rays can detect buttons, bolts, coins and other objects.

If intestinal obstruction is suspected.

After injuries, if there is a suspicion of a violation of the integrity of internal organs.

Presence of organ development abnormalities abdominal cavity and various pathological conditions.

How to prepare for research?

No special preparation is needed. When carrying out routine diagnostics, it is better to exclude gas-forming foods from the diet 2-3 days before the procedure, which create shadows and interfere with making a reliable diagnosis. For a while, you should stop eating legumes, sweet pastries, processed foods, kefir, fresh vegetables and fruits. Otherwise, the film will contain a distorted image of the gastrointestinal tract.

On the eve of the study, you should give preference to simple food. Your doctor may prescribe a cleansing enema or laxatives. The use of medications is discussed at a medical consultation.

There is no need to remove clothes, however, some patients are asked to expose the abdominal area, so it is optimal to choose loose T-shirts, sweaters, etc. It is advisable to remove all objects containing metal from the body. During the procedure, you must accurately follow the instructions of the diagnostician, hold your breath for a few seconds, remain still, etc. The finished images are handed out to you.

What organs are being examined?

Abdomen- this is the abdominal area from the diaphragm to the iliac bones; it includes important organs of the gastrointestinal tract. To study this area, not only radiography, but also ultrasound, CT, and MRI.

Survey radiography allows you to assess the location of organs relative to the heart, lungs, etc. The resulting images are informative enough to see the existing displacements and the level of extensibility of individual organs and tissues.

How often can a plain X-ray be taken?

The study is recommended to be carried out once a year to exclude diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. The reasons for immediately undergoing the procedure are peritoneal injuries, foreign bodies, severe pain and suspicion of appendicitis.

Where can I get an abdominal x-ray in Moscow?

Residents of Moscow and the Moscow region can take an x-ray of the abdomen in the “Doctor Nearby” network of clinics equipped with the necessary equipment. Qualified specialists work here, modern equipment is used, and prices are quite affordable.

How to interpret the results of the study?

Using X-ray diagnostics, you can see the location of foreign objects. The images show accumulations of gases and air, as well as a violation of the integrity of the walls of the gastrointestinal tract. The appearance of stains can be caused not only by gas, but also by free liquids. The presence of obstruction in the colon area is indicated by the appearance of vertical spots. When horizontal darkening predominates, we can assume the presence of obstruction in the small intestine area. In patients with serious pathologies, obstruction of the large and small intestine may be diagnosed.

Based on the nature of the location of gases and free liquids, an experienced diagnostician can make a conclusion about a possible rupture of the gastrointestinal tract, identify areas of swelling, perforation and other pathological phenomena. The resulting images help the attending physician make the correct diagnosis and prescribe treatment in a timely manner.

X-rays are actively used to diagnose diseases of the abdominal organs. Plain radiography of the abdominal cavity is widely used - an X-ray examination without the introduction of a contrast agent, which allows one to obtain a general picture of the condition of the abdominal cavity.

Abdominal organs: general information

The abdominal cavity is the abdominal cavity, which is limited above by the diaphragm, in front by the abdominal wall, behind by the lumbar spine, on the sides by the abdominal muscles, below by the ilia and the pelvic diaphragm. Inside the abdominal cavity are the organs of the digestive system - the stomach, gall bladder, liver, intestines, pancreas, as well as the spleen and organs of the urinary system - kidneys and ureters.

Examination of the pancreas, gallbladder, liver and spleen is usually carried out using methods that turn out to be the most informative for these organs. To examine the remaining organs of the abdominal cavity, predominantly other diagnostic methods are used, including radiography.

What does an abdominal x-ray show?

The method is based on the fact that tissues of different densities absorb X-rays differently. Denser, for example, bone tissue transmits rays less well, so in the picture such tissue appears lighter. The method allows you to determine the location of organs, their integrity, the presence of foreign bodies and neoplasms.

An abdominal x-ray shows:

• how gas and liquid are distributed in the abdominal cavity, whether there is free fluid in the abdominal cavity;
• whether there are foreign bodies in the abdominal cavity (swallowed objects in the intestines, gallstones, kidney stones);
• whether there is damage to internal organs;
• whether there is intra-abdominal bleeding.

From the point of view of assessing the condition of specific organs, plain radiography of the abdominal cavity is not very informative, but it allows you to quickly determine whether the picture is pathological or not. If the wall of the stomach or intestines ruptures (perforation of an ulcer or destruction of the wall by a tumor), an x-ray will show gas escaping into the free abdominal cavity. Using an abdominal x-ray, you can diagnose intestinal obstruction and even determine the approximate location of the problem.

When is an abdominal x-ray prescribed?

A survey radiography of the abdominal cavity is prescribed if there are severe complaints. Similar pain can occur with the following diseases:

• appendicitis;
• abscesses and inflammatory diseases of the abdominal organs;
• tumor processes;
• intestinal ischemia;
• intestinal obstruction;
• intestinal volvulus.

Plain radiography of the abdominal cavity is also prescribed for abdominal injuries.

How is an abdominal x-ray performed?

No special preparation is required for a plain abdominal x-ray.

X-rays can be performed in either one or two projections (standing and lying down). Sometimes it is enough to take an X-ray only in a standing position (this position allows you to better localize the problem of intestinal obstruction, as well as see a perforation of the stomach or intestines).

Before the examination, it is necessary to remove metal objects (jewelry). There is no need to take off your clothes. During the x-ray, you will need to stand still for some time, and hold your breath while the picture is taken.