Abdominal X-ray Projections and Interpretation

What feature allows for the visibility of the kidneys on an abdominal X-ray?

Where is the spleen located in relation to the left kidney on an abdominal X-ray?

How does the appearance of the bladder change on an abdominal X-ray?

Which of the following bones is NOT typically visible on an abdominal X-ray?

What serves as a landmark for the course of the ureters in an abdominal X-ray?

What is the most common projection used for an abdominal X-ray?

What is the upper limit of the normal diameter for the small intestine?

Which soft tissue organ is visible in the right upper quadrant on an abdominal X-ray?

Which muscle's edge is typically visible on an abdominal X-ray?

What constitutes the '3/6/9 rule' in abdominal X-ray interpretation?

Which of the following statements about abdominal X-rays is true?

Which of the following can be visible on an abdominal X-ray in some cases?

Where do the psoas muscles originate from?

Abdominal X-ray Projections

Different projections can be used for abdominal X-rays
Most common is supine or erect anterior-posterior projection
X-ray passes through the patient from front to back

Normal Abdominal X-ray (AP View)

Shows organs and structures
Includes the liver, spleen, kidneys, psoas muscles, and bladder

Interpretation of Normal Gas Pattern

Gas/air in the bowel lumen provides contrast
Bowel size (small, colon, caecum) can vary
Distended bowels are easier to discern
Normal 3/6/9 cm rule (upper limits for small bowel/colon/caecum)

Soft Tissues

Liver, spleen, kidneys, psoas muscles, and lung bases are visible
Liver in the right upper quadrant (RUQ)
Liver's edge forms the right hemi-diaphragm contour
Other structures may overlap or be obscured

Lung Bases in Abdominal X-ray

Lung bases may be visible, lying behind the liver and diaphragm
May be visible in posterior sulcus of thorax

Psoas Muscles on an Abdominal X-ray

The psoas muscles arise from lumbar vertebrae and combine with iliacus muscles
Form the iliopsoas tendon attaching to the lesser trochanter of the femur
Appear as a near straight lateral edge on X-ray

Kidneys on Abdominal X-ray

Visible due to natural contrast between kidneys and surrounding low-density retroperitoneal fat

Spleen on Abdominal X-ray

Lies in the upper left quadrant, superior to the left kidney

Urinary Bladder on Abdominal X-ray

Bladder appearance varies based on fullness

Bones on Abdominal X-ray

Visible bones include ribs, lumbar spine, sacrum, coccyx, pelvis, and proximal femurs
Bones can help locate soft tissue structures (e.g., ureters)
Sacroiliac joint is formed by overlapping of the sacrum and iliac bones

This quiz covers the various projections used in abdominal X-rays, with a focus on the normal anterior-posterior view. It delves into the interpretation of gas patterns, identification of soft tissues, and visibility of lung bases. Test your knowledge on how to analyze and understand these critical imaging elements in abdominal radiology.