1. Abdomen :
Planes & regions :

2. Plain radiograph of the abdomen
Plain radiograph of the abdomen & pelvic cavity are required:
• 1- prior introducing of contrast medium for example in
intravenous urography (IVU) or cholangiography to
demonstrate the presence of renal or gall stone & assess
adequately bowel preparation .
• 2- to demonstrate abnormal mass or calcification .
• In case of acute abdomen , to demonstrate the presence of
free fluid , abnormal collections of gas inside or outside the
bowel , radiopaque FB & shape and size of the viscera.

3. Plain abdomen
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ROUTINE POSITIONS: AP (K.U.B., Flatplate)
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AP Abdomen (K.U.B.).
14 X 17 film
Patient supine.
Cassette is placed so that the pubic bone is at the bottom of
the film.
Bucky or grid if patient is unable to be moved.
FFD = 40" (100 Cm).
High mA & very short time use to maximize image sharpness
& contrast.
Central Ray is perpendicular to the film.
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6. Upright Abdomen
14 x 17 film.
Patient is in an AP ERECT POSITION (allow time for free air
to rise).
Place top of cassette to the axilla (diaphragms must be
demonstrated).
Bucky
40" SID
Central Ray: horizontal, parallel with the fluid level, even
if patient isn't completely 90 degrees upright.
Expiration

7. Decubitus Abdomen
14 x 17 film.
Patient is placed in a recumbent left lateral position
(allow time for free air to rise).
Place the top of film at axilla (diaphragms must be
demonstrated).
Upright Bucky or grid.
40" SID.
Central Ray: perpendicular to film.
Expiration.

8. Lateral Abdomen:
14 x 17 film.
Patient is placed in a recumbent left lateral position.
Bucky.
40" SID.
Central Ray: perpendicular to film.
Centering point - level of crest.
Expiration.

9. ACUTE ABDOMINAL SERIES
(A.A.S.)
ROUTINE POSITIONS:
PA chest, AP abdomen,
AP upright
• PA chest
• 14 x 17 film
• Patient upright
• Patient's chin is extended with their hands on hips and
shoulders rolled forward.
• 72" FFD
• Central Ray: perpendicular to film.
• Deep inspiration