Abdominal Radiography: Current Practice and Common Pathology in Adults

Abdominal radiographs play a fundamental role in emergency and in-patient settings in the assessment of adult patients presenting with abdominal pain. Despite the inherent limitations associated with this modality, plain films can provide valuable information in the evaluation of both acute and chronic abdominal pain. For example, analysis of bowel gas patterns can reveal bowel obstructions, secondary findings of bowel ischemia, or visceral perforation. Findings related to solid organ, soft tissue, or vascular pathologies may also be detected on plain film. In this paper, we review the proper radiographic technique for abdominal radiographs, including different projections and patient factors, and discuss the use of enteric contrast media. We will also outline an approach to interpreting abdominal radiographs, with a review of several cases.