Radiologic examination, complete acute abdomen series, including 2 or more views of the abdomen (eg, supine, erect, decubitus), and a single view chest
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Radiologic examination, complete acute abdomen series, including 2 or more views of the abdomen (e.g., supine, erect, decubitus), and a single view chest
Summary
This procedure involves taking multiple X-ray images of the abdomen in different positions and a single X-ray of the chest. It helps doctors diagnose conditions that cause acute abdominal pain.
Purpose
Medical Condition or Problem:
- Acute abdominal pain
- Suspected bowel obstruction
- Perforation of abdominal organs
- Intra-abdominal masses
Goals or Expected Outcomes:
- To provide a comprehensive view of the abdomen to identify the cause of acute pain.
- To assess the presence and extent of conditions such as bowel obstruction, perforation, or other abdominal abnormalities.
Indications
Specific Symptoms or Conditions:
- Severe, unexplained abdominal pain
- Signs of bowel obstruction (e.g., vomiting, severe constipation)
- Suspected perforation (e.g., sharp, sudden abdominal pain)
Patient Criteria:
- Anyone experiencing acute abdominal symptoms that demand immediate evaluation.
- Patients with a history or physical exam suggesting an acute abdominal condition.
Preparation
Pre-Procedure Instructions:
- Fasting may be required if another procedure like contrast imaging is anticipated.
- Remove any metallic objects, jewelry, or clothing from the area to be examined.
Diagnostic Tests or Assessments:
- Prior clinical evaluation and history taking.
- Sometimes, blood tests or other imaging studies might be conducted beforehand.
Procedure Description
- The patient is positioned on an X-ray table.
- Multiple X-ray images are taken in different positions: supine (lying face up), erect (standing or sitting), and decubitus (lying on the side).
- A single chest X-ray is also performed, typically in the erect position.
- The procedure involves using an X-ray machine to capture images.
- No anesthesia or sedation is typically required.
Duration
Typically takes 15 to 30 minutes.
Setting
Performed in a hospital radiology department or an outpatient imaging facility.
Personnel
- Radiologic technologists conduct the imaging.
- Radiologists interpret the images.
- Other healthcare providers might include attending physicians or nurses.
Risks and Complications
Common Risks:
- Exposure to a small amount of radiation.
Rare Risks:
- Allergic reactions to any contrast material, though less likely in a plain X-ray series.
Possible Complications:
- Misinterpretation of images, requiring further imaging or tests.
Benefits
- Provides rapid assessment and diagnosis of acute abdominal conditions.
- Helps in making timely decisions for medical or surgical treatments.
- Non-invasive and generally quick.
Recovery
Post-Procedure Care:
- No special care needed immediately after the procedure.
- Patients can usually resume normal activities right away.
Expected Recovery Time:
- Immediate, as there is no downtime associated with the procedure.
Restrictions or Follow-Up:
- Follow-up appointments as needed based on the findings.
- Additional tests or imaging might be required.
Alternatives
- Abdominal ultrasound
- CT scan of the abdomen
- MRI of the abdomen
Pros and Cons:
- Ultrasound: No radiation but may not provide as much detail.
- CT: More detailed images but involves higher radiation.
- MRI: Very detailed but more expensive and takes longer.
Patient Experience
During the Procedure:
- You might feel discomfort from maintaining certain positions.
- Generally painless; you only need to stay still during image capture.
After the Procedure:
- Normal activities can be resumed immediately.
- There might be instructions to follow if contrast material was used, but this is uncommon in a standard X-ray series.
- Pain management usually not necessary, as the procedure itself is not painful.
Pain Management and Comfort Measures:
- Most patients do not require pain management specifically for this procedure.