Abdominal X-Ray
Results
An abdominal
Reference X-ray Opens New Window takes a picture of structures and
Reference organs Opens New Window Reference 
Opens New Window in the belly (abdomen). This includes the
stomach, liver, spleen, large and small intestines, and the diaphragm, which is
the muscle that separates the chest and belly areas. In an emergency, the
results of an abdominal X-ray are ready in a few minutes. Otherwise, results
are ready in 1 to 2 days.
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Normal: |
The pictures made by the X-rays show that the stomach, small and large bowel, liver, spleen, kidneys, and bladder are normal in size, shape, and location. |
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No growths, abnormal amounts of fluid (Reference ascites Opens New Window), or foreign objects are seen. Normal amounts of air and fluid are seen in the intestines. Normal amounts of stool are seen in the large intestine. |
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Abnormal: |
A blocked intestine may be
seen because a portion of the intestine is larger than usual or areas in the
intestine have abnormal amounts of air or fluid in them). See an X-ray picture
showing a Reference blocked intestine Opens New Window Reference |
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A collection of air inside the belly cavity but outside the intestines (caused by a hole in the stomach or intestines) may be seen. |
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The walls of the intestines may look abnormal or thick. |
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The size, shape, or location of the bladder or kidneys may be abnormal. Kidney stones may be seen in the kidney, ureters, bladder, or urethra. |
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In some cases, Reference gallstones Opens New Window can be seen on an abdominal X-ray. |
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Abnormal growths, such as large tumors, or ascites may be seen. |
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A foreign object is seen or a medical device looks abnormal or out of position. |
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference December 21, 2010 |
| Medical Review: | Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Reference Howard Schaff, MD - Diagnostic Radiology |
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