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.