Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Abdominal X-ray

(Flat Plate of the Abdomen; Kidneys, Ureter, Bladder; KUB)
by Editorial Staff and Contributors
Definition

This test is an x-ray that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the abdomen.

Reasons for Test

This test is used when there is a concern that there is a problem in your abdomen. Some symptoms that may make your doctor concerned include:

  • Abdominal pain or side pain
  • Bloating
  • Blood in the urine
  • Bloody or dark black stools
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Nausea and vomiting

What to Expect
Prior to Test

You may be asked not to eat or drink anything for four hours before your test.

You will remove your clothes and put on a hospital gown. You will also need to remove all metal items, like jewelry and watches.

Tell your doctor if you:

  • Are pregnant or could possibly be pregnant
  • Had a barium contrast x-ray within the last four days
  • Have an intrauterine device (IUD)
  • Have taken any bismuth medicines (such as Pepto-Bismol) within the last four days
Description of Test

You will lie flat on your back under the x-ray machine and remain still while the x-ray is taken. You may be asked to shift to other positions for more x-rays.

After Test

You will be able to leave after the test is done.

How Long Will It Take?

About 10 minutes

Will It Hurt?

No

Results

The x-ray may help your doctor find the source of your problem. If the x-ray shows an abnormality, you may need more testing, which may include:

  • Abdominal and pelvic CT scan —a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of the inside of the body
  • Ultrasound —a test that uses sound waves to visualize the inside of the body
Call Your Doctor

Call your doctor if you have any questions about the test, your condition, or your test results.

In case of an emergency, call for medical help right away.

Last reviewed: December 2010 by Adrienne Carmack, MD.

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