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| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the primary purpose of abdominal radiography? | To examine the anatomy and positioning for images of the abdomen. |
| What is the most common examination performed in abdominal radiography? | An anteroposterior (AP) supine abdomen, also called a KUB (kidneys, ureters, and bladder). |
| What does KUB stand for in abdominal imaging? | Kidneys, Ureters, and Bladder. |
| What is an acute abdominal series? | A series of abdominal images performed in different positions to demonstrate air-fluid levels, free air, or both within the abdominal cavity. |
| What are common conditions that may require an acute abdominal series? | Bowel obstruction, perforations, excessive fluid in the abdomen (ascites), or a possible intra-abdominal mass. |
| What are the key muscles associated with the abdominopelvic cavity? | The right and left hemidiaphragms and the right and left psoas major and minor muscles. |
| Where is the right hemidiaphragm attached? | Anteriorly to the fifth rib and posteriorly at the level of the tenth rib. |
| What is the function of the diaphragm in abdominal imaging? | It separates the abdominal cavity from the thoracic cavity and must be motionless during imaging. |
| What are the six organs of the digestive system? | Oral cavity, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. |
| What is the role of the stomach in the digestive system? | It serves as an expandable reservoir for swallowed food and fluids. |
| What are the three parts of the small intestine? | Duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. |
| How long is the small intestine? | About 15 to 18 feet (4.5 to 5.5 m) in length. |
| What is the first portion of the small intestine? | Duodenum. |
| What is the ileocecal valve? | The orifice (valve) between the distal ileum and the cecum portion of the large intestine. |
| Where does the large intestine begin? | In the right lower quadrant at the junction of the small intestine and the ileocecal valve. |
| What is the cecum? | A saclike portion of the large intestine below the ileocecal valve. |
| What are the two colic flexures in the large intestine? | Hepatic (right) and splenic (left) flexures. |
| What is the final part of the large intestine? | The rectum, which ends at the anus. |
| What is the significance of breathing instructions during abdominal imaging? | They help to stop the motion of the diaphragm for clearer images. |
| What is ascites? | Excessive fluid in the abdomen. |
| What is the function of the psoas major muscles in abdominal imaging? | They should be faintly visible on a diagnostic abdominal image when correct exposure factors are used. |
| What is the role of contrast media in abdominal examinations? | It is used during fluoroscopic examinations to rule out specific pathologies. |
| What does the term 'gastro' refer to? | It denotes a relationship to the stomach. |
| What is the anatomical position of the left hemidiaphragm? | Located near the first intercostal space. |
| What is the importance of understanding abdominal organ systems in radiography? | It is crucial for accurate imaging and diagnosis. |
| What is the typical imaging sequence for an acute abdominal series? | A supine KUB, an upright AP or decubitus abdomen, and a PA or AP chest. |
| What is the primary imaging technique used for the stomach and small intestine? | Barium studies. |
| What is the primary function of the stomach? | To digest food by mixing it with gastric juices. |
| What is the duodenal bulb? | The first part of the small intestine, connecting to the stomach. |
| Where is the liver located? | In the right upper quadrant of the abdomen. |
| What is the role of the spleen? | Part of the lymphatic system, it filters blood and helps fight infections. |
| What are the three accessory organs of digestion? | Pancreas, liver, and gallbladder. |
| What is the function of the pancreas? | Produces digestive juices and hormones like insulin. |
| What does the liver produce that aids in digestion? | Bile, which emulsifies fats. |
| What is the gallbladder's function? | Stores and concentrates bile produced by the liver. |
| What is cholelithiasis? | The presence of gallstones in the gallbladder. |
| What are gallstones primarily composed of? | Cholesterol or bile pigments. |
| What imaging technique is used to visualize the urinary system? | Excretory or intravenous urogram (IVU). |
| What are the main components of the urinary system? | Two kidneys, two ureters, one urinary bladder, and one urethra. |
| Where are the kidneys located? | On either side of the lumbar vertebral column. |
| What is the function of the kidneys? | To filter waste materials from the blood and produce urine. |
| What is the role of the ureters? | To transport urine from the kidneys to the urinary bladder. |
| What is the anatomical position of the spleen relative to the stomach? | Posterior and to the left of the stomach. |
| How does the gallbladder respond to the hormone cholecystokinin? | It contracts to release stored bile. |
| What is the average length of the pancreas? | About 6 inches (12.5 cm). |
| What is the relationship between the duodenum and the pancreas? | The head of the pancreas is nestled in the C-loop of the duodenum. |
| What is the significance of the term 'radiolucent' in relation to gallstones? | Most gallstones are not visible on standard radiographic images. |
| What is the primary function of the urinary bladder? | To store urine until it is expelled from the body. |
| What is the anatomical position of the gallbladder? | Posterior and inferior to the liver. |
| What is the term for the examination of the urinary system using contrast media? | Intravenous urogram (IVU). |
| What is the primary role of the exocrine function of the pancreas? | To produce digestive juices for the small intestine. |
| What happens to bile if it is not needed immediately? | It is stored in the gallbladder. |
| What are the two types of secretion systems the pancreas is part of? | Endocrine and exocrine secretion systems. |
| What is the typical position of the right kidney compared to the left kidney? | The right kidney is usually situated slightly lower due to the liver. |
| What is the primary function of the large intestine? | To absorb water and electrolytes from indigestible food matter. |
| What is the peritoneum? | A large serous, double-walled, saclike membrane covering most abdominal structures and organs. |
| What are the two types of peritoneum? | Parietal peritoneum (adheres to the abdominal wall) and visceral peritoneum (covers organs). |
| What is the peritoneal cavity? | The space between the parietal and visceral peritoneum, typically filled with organs. |
| What is mesentery? | A double fold of peritoneum that binds the small intestine to the posterior abdominal wall. |
| What does the term omentum refer to? | A double-fold peritoneum extending from the stomach to another organ. |
| What is the greater omentum? | A fold of peritoneum that connects the transverse colon to the greater curvature of the stomach. |
| What is the lesser omentum? | A fold of peritoneum extending from the lesser curvature of the stomach to portions of the liver. |
| What is the mesocolon? | The peritoneum that connects the colon to the posterior abdominal wall. |
| What are retroperitoneal organs? | Organs closely attached to the retroperitoneal posterior abdominal wall, such as kidneys and ureters. |
| What are infraperitoneal organs? | Organs located beneath the peritoneum, in the true pelvis, like the lower rectum and urinary bladder. |
| What are intraperitoneal organs? | Organs within the abdominal cavity that are partially or wholly covered by visceral peritoneum. |
| What structures are considered retroperitoneal? | Kidneys, ureters, adrenal glands, pancreas, ascending and descending colon, abdominal aorta, and inferior vena cava. |
| What structures are considered infraperitoneal? | Lower rectum, urinary bladder, and reproductive organs. |
| What is the significance of the greater sac? | It is the major portion of the peritoneal cavity. |
| What is the lesser sac? | A smaller portion of the upper posterior peritoneal cavity located posterior to the stomach. |
| What is the function of the peritoneal fluid? | To allow organs to move against each other without friction. |
| What is the role of the mesentery in the abdominal cavity? | To bind abdominal organs to each other and the walls of the abdomen. |
| What is the anatomical position of the inferior vena cava? | It runs alongside the abdominal aorta and is considered retroperitoneal. |
| What is the relationship between the peritoneum and abdominal organs? | The peritoneum covers and supports the abdominal organs, allowing for movement and protection. |
| What is the anatomical position of the kidneys in relation to the peritoneum? | The kidneys are retroperitoneal organs. |
| What is the anatomical significance of the ascending and descending colon? | They are retroperitoneal structures that are only partially covered by the peritoneum. |
| What is the anatomical relationship of the small intestine to the mesentery? | The mesentery envelops the small intestine and connects it to the posterior abdominal wall. |
| What does the term 'retroperitoneal' mean? | Located behind the peritoneum. |
| What does the term 'infraperitoneal' mean? | Located beneath the peritoneum. |
| What is the clinical significance of understanding retroperitoneal and infraperitoneal organs? | It helps in diagnosing and treating abdominal conditions. |
| What is the function of the greater omentum? | It acts as insulation and protects the abdominal organs. |
| What is the anatomical significance of the transverse mesocolon? | It connects the transverse colon to the posterior abdominal wall. |
| What is the main difference between male and female peritoneal enclosures? | The lower aspect of the peritoneum is a closed sac in males but not in females. |
| How does the lower peritoneal sac in males separate reproductive organs? | In males, it lies above the urinary bladder, completely separating reproductive organs from those in the peritoneal cavity. |
| What structures pass directly into the peritoneal cavity in females? | The uterus, uterine tubes, and ovaries. |
| What are the three classifications of abdominal organs in relation to the peritoneal cavity? | Intraperitoneal, retroperitoneal, and infraperitoneal. |
| Name three intraperitoneal organs. | Liver, gallbladder, stomach. |
| What is the purpose of dividing the abdomen into quadrants? | To localize a particular organ or describe the location of abdominal pain. |
| What are the four abdominal quadrants? | Right upper quadrant (RUQ), left upper quadrant (LUQ), right lower quadrant (RLQ), left lower quadrant (LLQ). |
| What anatomical landmarks define the four quadrants of the abdomen? | Two imaginary perpendicular planes at the umbilicus. |
| What are the nine regions of the abdominopelvic cavity? | Right hypochondriac, epigastric, left hypochondriac, right lumbar, umbilical, left lumbar, right inguinal, pubic (hypogastric), left inguinal. |
| What are the two horizontal planes used to define the nine abdominal regions? | Transpyloric plane and transtubercular plane. |
| What is the transpyloric plane? | A horizontal plane at the lower border of the first lumbar vertebra (L1). |
| What is the transtubercular plane? | A horizontal plane at the level of the fifth lumbar vertebra (L5). |
| What are the two vertical planes used in the nine regions of the abdomen? | Right and left lateral planes. |
| What is the significance of the xiphoid process in abdominal anatomy? | It approximates the superior anterior portion of the diaphragm. |
| At what vertebral levels is the inferior costal margin located? | Level of L2 to L3. |
| What is the iliac crest and its significance in abdominal positioning? | The uppermost portion of the ilium, used as a landmark for locating the mid-abdominopelvic region. |
| Why is palpation of abdominal landmarks important? | To accurately position for abdominal radiographs and locate organs. |
| What is the level of the iliac crest in relation to the umbilicus? | It is at or just slightly below the level of the umbilicus in most people. |
| What is the role of the abdominal quadrants in medical imaging? | They help in localizing organs and describing abdominal pain. |
| What is the anatomical position of the right kidney? | It is a retroperitoneal organ. |
| What is the anatomical position of the bladder in males? | It is classified as infraperitoneal. |
| How do body habitus and position affect organ location? | They can cause variations in the locations of organs within the abdominal cavity. |
| What is the significance of the abdominal borders and organs not being visible externally? | It necessitates the use of bony landmarks for palpation and positioning. |
| What is the definition of intraperitoneal organs? | Organs that are completely surrounded by peritoneum. |
| What is the primary use of the four-quadrant system in clinical practice? | It is used most frequently in imaging for localizing a particular organ. |
| What is the anatomical significance of the umbilicus? | It serves as a landmark for dividing the abdomen into quadrants. |
| What is the importance of understanding the nine abdominal regions? | It aids in the precise identification of organ locations and potential pathologies. |
| What is the ASIS and how is it located? | The Anterior Superior Iliac Spine (ASIS) is located by palpating the iliac crest anteriorly and inferiorly until a prominent projection is felt. |
| What is the significance of the greater trochanter in radiographic positioning? | The greater trochanter serves as a secondary landmark for abdominal positioning and can be palpated by rotating the leg while applying firm pressure. |
| What is the symphysis pubis? | The symphysis pubis is the anterior junction of the two pelvic bones, palpated in a supine position, corresponding to the inferior margin of the abdomen. |
| How can the ischial tuberosity be used in positioning? | The ischial tuberosity can determine the lower margin on a PA abdomen in a prone position and bears most of the trunk's weight when seated. |
| What are the general patient preparation steps for abdominal imaging? | Patients should remove clothing and radiopaque items, wear a hospital gown, and be made comfortable on the radiographic table. |
| What breathing instructions are typically given for abdominal radiographs? | Patients are instructed to take a deep breath, let it out, hold it, and not breathe during the exposure. |
| What is the purpose of image markers in radiography? | Markers indicate the correct side of the patient and orientation of the image, ensuring they are placed on the IR before exposure. |
| What practices are recommended for radiation protection in radiography? | Good practices include reducing repeat exposures, close collimation, shielding, and using correct exposure factors. |
| What is the importance of collimation in abdominal radiography? | Collimation reduces unnecessary exposure and ensures that essential anatomy is included in the image. |
| What is the AAPM's position on gonadal shielding? | The AAPM recommends discontinuing gonadal shielding due to potential interference with radiographic examination benefits. |
| How should gonadal shields be positioned for male patients? | The upper edge of the shield should be placed at the pubic symphysis. |
| What considerations should be made for female patients regarding gonadal shielding? | Shields should only be used if they do not obscure essential anatomy in the lower abdominopelvic region. |
| What are the principal exposure factors for abdominal images? | The factors include medium kVp of 70 to 85, short exposure time, and adequate mAs based on part thickness. |
| What should correctly exposed abdominal images demonstrate? | They should faintly show the lateral borders of the psoas muscles, lower liver margin, kidney outlines, and lumbar vertebrae. |
| Why is motion prevention critical in pediatric radiography? | Motion prevention is crucial to ensure image quality, requiring short exposure times and adjusted technique factors for children. |
| What adjustments are necessary for imaging children under 13 years? | Children require a reduction in kVp and mAs based on measured part thickness to minimize repeat exposures. |
| What is the role of the diaphragm during abdominal imaging? | The diaphragm should be in a superior position during expiration to better visualize abdominal structures. |
| What is the recommended position for abdominal imaging to reduce part thickness? | Placing the patient in a prone position can compress the abdominal region, allowing for lower mAs settings. |
| What is the significance of the ASIS in gonadal shielding for females? | The top of an ovarian shield should be at or slightly above the level of ASIS to avoid obscuring essential anatomy. |
| What should be done before making an exposure in abdominal radiography? | Ensure the patient is following breathing instructions and that sufficient time has been allowed for breathing movements to cease. |
| What is the potential issue with incorrectly placed gonadal shields? | Incorrect placement may obscure anatomical information or interfere with the automatic exposure control (AEC) system. |
| What are the key factors to consider when preparing for an abdominal imaging procedure? | Factors include patient comfort, proper positioning, breathing instructions, and ensuring all radiopaque items are removed. |
| What is the role of breathing instructions in preventing motion during radiography? | Clear breathing instructions help eliminate motion caused by voluntary breathing during the exposure. |
| What should be monitored during the exposure of abdominal radiographs? | The patient's adherence to breathing instructions and the cessation of all breathing movements. |
| What is the effect of using a typical 14 × 17-inch field size in vertical collimation? | It may result in collimating off essential anatomy on average-sized adults. |
| What thickness measurement indicates that a grid may not be necessary for pediatric abdominal radiographic procedures? | Less than 10 cm (approximately 4 inches) |
| What is essential when working with older patients during abdominal imaging? | Careful breathing instructions and assistance in positioning |
| What type of padding is recommended for thin geriatric patients during supine abdomen radiographic procedures? | Extra radiolucent padding under the back and buttocks |
| What is a common challenge when positioning bariatric patients for abdomen projections? | Palpating for bony landmarks due to adipose tissue and skin folds |
| Which landmarks may be used to determine the upper margin of the IR in bariatric patients? | The xiphoid process (T9 to T10) or the lower costal margin (L2 to L3) |
| What is the recommended method to image the entire abdomen of a bariatric patient? | Taking two images with landscape alignment, overlapping by 1 to 2 inches |
| What does the ALARA principle stand for in digital imaging? | As Low As Reasonably Achievable |
| What should be checked after each digital image to ensure optimal quality? | The exposure indicator on the final processed image |
| What imaging modalities are advantageous for evaluating small neoplasms in abdominal organs? | Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance (MR) Imaging |
| What is the role of intravenous iodinated contrast media in CT imaging? | To discriminate between a simple cyst and a solid neoplasm |
| What is the preferred imaging method for detecting gallstones? | Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) |
| What is the main advantage of DMS in evaluating soft tissue organs? | Detecting and assessing lesions or inflammation |
| What is the recommended approach for diagnosing acute appendicitis in pediatric patients? | DMS with graded compression combined with clinical evaluation |
| What imaging modality is considered ideal for demonstrating an abscess surrounding the inflamed appendix? | Computed Tomography (CT) with intravenous contrast media |
| What does nuclear medicine imaging evaluate in relation to gastrointestinal motility? | GI motility and reflux related to possible bowel obstruction |
| What does pneumoperitoneum refer to? | Free air or gas in the peritoneal cavity, often requiring surgery if caused by perforation |
| What is dynamic or mechanical bowel obstruction? | A complete or nearly complete blockage of the flow of intestinal contents |
| What is the most common cause of mechanically based bowel obstruction? | Fibrous adhesions |
| What is Crohn's disease? | A chronic inflammation of the intestinal wall that can cause bowel obstruction |
| What are the two most common sites of intestinal involvement in Crohn's disease? | The terminal ileum and proximal colon. |
| What is intussusception? | The telescoping of a bowel section into another section, creating an obstruction. |
| Where is intussusception most common? | In the distal small intestine region (terminal ileum) and is more common in children. |
| What is the recommended treatment timeframe for intussusception to prevent necrosis? | Treatment should occur within 48 hours. |
| What is volvulus? | The twisting of a loop of the intestine, which creates an obstruction. |
| What is the difference between adynamic ileus and paralytic ileus? | Adynamic ileus is without power or force, while paralytic ileus is caused by a lack of intestinal motility. |
| What commonly causes paralytic ileus? | It frequently occurs in postoperative patients, usually 24 to 72 hours after abdominal surgery. |
| What is the radiographic appearance of ileus? | Characterized by a large amount of air and fluid with air-fluid levels in a significantly dilated small and large intestine. |
| What is the most common radiographic examination for dynamic (mechanical) bowel obstruction? | Acute abdomen series. |
| What radiographic appearance is associated with intussusception? | Air-filled 'coiled spring' appearance. |
| What is the typical radiographic finding for volvulus? | Large amounts of air in the sigmoid colon. |
| What are the clinical indications for an AP abdomen (KUB) projection? | Pathology of the abdomen, including bowel obstruction, neoplasms, calcifications, and ascites. |
| What is the recommended patient position for an AP supine abdomen projection? | Supine with the midsagittal plane centered to midline of the table or IR. |
| What is the kVp range for abdominal imaging? | 70 to 85 kVp. |
| What should be done to minimize lordotic lumbar curvature during an AP abdomen projection? | Bend the legs with support under the knees. |
| What is the purpose of collimation in abdominal imaging? | To limit the field of view to the area of interest. |
| What is a contraindication for a barium enema? | Symptoms of toxic megacolon. |
| What is ulcerative colitis? | A chronic disease involving inflammation of the colon, primarily affecting young adults. |
| What severe complication can arise from ulcerative colitis? | Toxic megacolon, which can lead to bowel perforation. |
| What is the typical radiographic appearance of ulcerative colitis? | Deep air-filled mucosal protrusions of the colon wall, usually in the rectosigmoid region. |
| What is the significance of the 'beak sign' in radiology? | It indicates tapered narrowing at the site of a volvulus. |
| What is the minimum SID recommended for abdominal imaging? | 40 inches (100 cm). |
| What is the purpose of gonadal shielding in radiology? | To protect reproductive organs during imaging procedures. |
| What is the evaluation criteria for an AP abdomen image? | Outline of liver, spleen, kidneys, psoas muscles, and air-filled stomach and bowel segments. |
| What should be checked to ensure no rotation in an AP abdomen projection? | Both ASIS should be the same distance from the tabletop. |
| What is the appearance of a normal abdomen in an erect position on radiographs? | Thin, crest-shaped radiolucency under the dome of the right hemidiaphragm. |
| What is the common radiographic finding in Crohn's disease? | Cobblestone appearance of the intestine. |
| What is the exposure factor adjustment for a distended loop of air-filled small intestine? | Decrease exposure, depending on severity of distention. |
| What is the recommended patient position for a PA prone abdomen X-ray? | Prone with the midsagittal plane of the body centered to the midline of the table or IR. |
| What is the purpose of gonadal shielding in abdomen imaging? | To protect reproductive organs from unnecessary radiation exposure. |
| What is the recommended collimation size for abdomen imaging? | 14 x 17 inches (35 x 43 cm), collimate on four sides to the anatomy of interest. |
| When should exposure be taken during respiration for abdomen imaging? | At the end of expiration. |
| What anatomical structures should be demonstrated in a PA abdomen X-ray? | Outline of liver, spleen, kidneys, psoas muscles, air-filled stomach and bowel segments. |
| What is the CR (central ray) direction for a PA abdomen X-ray? | Perpendicular to and directed to the center of the IR at the level of the iliac crest. |
| What is the significance of the lateral decubitus position in abdomen imaging? | It best visualizes free intraperitoneal air and air-fluid levels. |
| What is the minimum SID (source-to-image distance) for abdomen imaging? | 40 inches (100 cm). |
| What should be the position of the patient's arms during a lateral decubitus abdomen X-ray? | Arms up beside the head. |
| What is the evaluation criterion for no rotation in abdomen imaging? | Iliac wings appear symmetric, and outer rib margins are the same distance from the spine. |
| What should be included in the field of view for an erect abdomen X-ray? | Upper abdomen and bilateral diaphragms. |
| How long should a patient be upright before an erect abdomen exposure? | A minimum of 5 minutes; 10 to 20 minutes is preferred. |
| What is the CR direction for a lateral decubitus abdomen X-ray? | Horizontal, directed to the center of the IR, about 2 inches above the iliac crest. |
| What is the importance of the position of the patient in a dorsal decubitus abdomen X-ray? | It helps demonstrate air-fluid levels and free intraperitoneal air. |
| What should be the patient's leg position during a lateral recumbent abdomen X-ray? | Knees partially flexed, one on top of the other to stabilize the patient. |
| What is the purpose of using a horizontal beam in abdomen imaging? | To demonstrate air-fluid levels and free intraperitoneal air. |
| What anatomical structures should be visualized in a left lateral decubitus position? | Air-filled stomach, loops of bowel, and air-fluid levels. |
| What is the evaluation criterion for exposure quality in abdomen imaging? | No motion; ribs and gas bubble margins should appear sharp. |
| What is the recommended kVp range for abdomen imaging? | 70 to 85 kVp. |
| What should be done if a patient is too weak to maintain an erect position? | Perform a lateral decubitus abdomen X-ray instead. |
| What is the significance of including the diaphragm in abdomen imaging? | To visualize any free intraperitoneal air under the diaphragm. |
| What is the recommended field size for an erect abdomen X-ray? | 14 x 17 inches (35 x 43 cm), portrait. |
| What is the recommended position for the patient's arms during an AP erect abdomen X-ray? | Arms at sides away from the body. |
| What should be done to ensure no tilt in the patient's position during abdomen imaging? | Ensure the spine is straight and aligned with the center of the IR. |
| What is the importance of evaluating the margins of the liver and kidneys in abdomen imaging? | To ensure optimal image receptor exposure and visibility of anatomical structures. |
| What should be done to prevent sagging and anatomy cutoff during lateral recumbent positioning? | Position the patient on a firm surface, such as a cardiac or backboard. |
| What is the minimum SID for abdominal radiography? | 40 inches (100 cm) |
| What is the recommended field size for abdominal radiography? | 14 × 17 inches (35 × 43 cm), landscape |
| What kVp range is recommended for abdominal radiography? | 70 to 85 |
| What is the purpose of using gonadal shielding in radiography? | To protect reproductive organs from radiation exposure. |
| What patient position is used for a supine abdominal radiograph? | Supine on a radiolucent pad with the side against the table. |
| What should be ensured regarding the patient and cart during positioning? | Neither the patient nor the cart should be tilted in relation to the IR. |
| Where should the center of the IR and CR be positioned for abdominal radiography? | At the level of the iliac crest or 2 inches (5 cm) above it to include the diaphragm. |
| What is the purpose of collimation in radiography? | To minimize scatter radiation and focus on the area of interest. |
| When should exposure be made during respiration for abdominal radiography? | At the end of expiration. |
| What is the clinical indication for performing an erect abdomen radiograph? | To visualize free intraperitoneal air under the diaphragm. |
| What are the three projections typically included in an acute abdomen series? | AP supine abdomen, AP erect abdomen, and PA chest projection. |
| What is an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the abdomen called? | Ascites. |
| What is the significance of air-fluid levels in abdominal radiography? | They indicate bowel obstruction or other pathological conditions. |
| What positioning error is indicated by the superimposition of posterior ribs? | Rotation of the pelvis or shoulders. |
| What does the term 'dorsal decubitus' refer to in radiography? | A lateral position of the patient for abdominal imaging. |
| What is the purpose of the left lateral decubitus position in radiography? | To visualize free air in non-ambulatory patients. |
| What should be included in the anatomy demonstrated in an erect abdomen radiograph? | Diaphragm and as much of the lower abdomen as possible. |
| What is the significance of the prevertebral region in abdominal imaging? | It is assessed for possible aneurysms or calcifications. |
| What is the common positioning for a lateral decubitus abdomen radiograph? | Patient in a lateral recumbent position with knees flexed. |
| What is the evaluation criterion for exposure quality in abdominal radiographs? | No motion; rib and gas bubble margins should appear sharp. |
| What is the clinical indication for performing a PA chest in an acute abdomen series? | To visualize free intraperitoneal air under the diaphragm. |
| What is the recommended practice for pediatric patients in acute abdomen series? | Include only an AP supine abdomen and one horizontal beam projection. |
| What should be done if a patient is too ill to stand for an erect abdomen projection? | Use a left lateral decubitus position instead. |
| What is the purpose of using a horizontal beam in abdominal radiography? | To visualize air-fluid levels. |
| What does 'no tilt' in positioning indicate in radiography? | Symmetric appearance of intervertebral foramen. |
| What is a common indication for abdominal radiography? | Abnormal masses or accumulations of gas. |
| What should be checked for in the critique of radiographs? | Essential anatomy, positioning errors, and optimal technical factors. |
| What is the significance of the iliac crest in abdominal radiography? | It serves as a landmark for centering the CR. |
| What is the importance of the soft tissue detail in abdominal imaging? | It helps in diagnosing conditions affecting the abdominal organs. |