Abdo Imaging

Question 1

what is an AXR able to tell us about the GI tract/abdo?

Answer 1

1. r/o free air (perforation)
2. obstruction
3. sometimes constipation
4. sometimes stones

Question 2

what colour is air on xray?

Answer 2

black

Question 3

what colour is fat on xray?

Answer 3

grey

Question 4

what is a CT abdo/pelvis good at visualizing?

Answer 4

solid organs

less good with hollow organs

Question 5

indications for CT include

Answer 5

1. solid organs
2. peritoneum
3. vascular structures
4. GU/GI tract
5. bones, muscles, and soft tissues

Question 6

what indications are better for U/S than CT?

Answer 6

1. gallstones
2. biliary tree
3. gyne organs
4. fast/time sensitive procedures

Question 7

how do we image the abdo vascular system (4)?

Answer 7

1. conventional angiogram
2. CT angiogram
3. MRA
4. doppler U/S

Question 8

s/s of a bowel perforation

Answer 8

1. pain and distention of the abdo that is worsening
2. peritonitis ➔ perforation
3. N/V
4. early normal vitals, later progress to s/s of sepsis

Question 9

what does a clear air fluid level tell you about your dx?

Answer 9

a clear indication of a bowel obstruction