Chapter 3: Abdomen

Question 1

An AP supine abdominal image with accurate positioning demonstrates:
1. the outline of the psoas major muscles and kidneys
2. the diaphragm domes located inferior to the 10 posterior rib
3. no rotation of the pelvis
4. the long axis of the vertebral column is centered on projection

Answer 1

1, 3, and 4

Question 2

At what level is the CR directed for a supine AP projection of the abdomen?

Answer 2

iliac crest

Question 3

Abdomen projections should be exposed on:

Answer 3

Expiration

Question 4

Which one of the following structures must be demonstrated on an AP Supine Abdomen?
- symphysis pubis
- diaphragm
- xiphoid process
- ischial tuberosities

Answer 4

Symphysis pubis

Question 5

Which one of the following structures must be demonstrated on an AP Upright Abdomen image?

Answer 5

diaphragm

Question 6

Which topographic landmark corresponds to the level of L2/L3?

Answer 6

Inferior costal margin

Question 7

Which topographic landmark corresponds to the level of L4-5?

Answer 7

Iliac crest

Question 8

Which two technical conditions must be met in a decubitus position?

Answer 8

The patient must be lying down and the central ray parallel to the floor.

Question 9

Which projection or position will best demonstrate free intraperitoneal air in the abdomen?

Answer 9

Erect AP abdomen projection

Question 10

Which projection is performed to demonstrate free air or gas in the abdominal cavity when the patient is unable to stand?

Answer 10

Left lateral decubitus

Question 11

What CR centering should be used for a lateral decubitus AP projection of the abdomen?

Answer 11

2 inches above the iliac crest

Question 12

Two AP projections in the supine position with the IR oriented crosswise may be needed for patients who have a body type that is:

Answer 12

Hypersthenic

Question 13

For an upright AP abdomen projection, the
1. ASISs are positioned at equal distances from the IR.
2. patient remains in an upright position at least 5 to 20 minutes before the image is obtained.
3. symphysis pubis should be included.
4. patient is instructed to take a deep inspiration before the image is obtained.

Answer 13

1 and 2

Question 14

For an Acute Abdominal Series, the required projection are
1. PA chest
2. Lateral chest
3. KUB
4. Upright / Erect Abdomen

Answer 14

1, 3 and 4

Question 15

For the Erect Abdomen (AP projection), place the top of the IR at the level of the ____

Answer 15

Axilla

Question 16

A radiograph of an AP KUB reveals that the obturator foramina are cut off from the bottom of the image. The kidneys and symphysis pubis are demonstrated. What centering adjustments should be made to improve this image?

Answer 16

This radiograph is correctly centered. No adjustments are needed

Question 17

A supine AP abdominal image obtained with the patient in an LPO position demonstrates:
1. the sacrum and coccyx aligned with the symphysis pubis
2. Right side of pelvis is elongated (looks larger then the left side)
3. Left side of the pelvis is elongated (looks larger then the right side)
4. Right side of the patient is foreshortened (looks smaller then the left side)

Answer 17

3 and 4

Question 18

What is the specific positioning error if the right iliac wing is wider in appearance as compared to the left as seen on an AP supine abdomen radiograph?

Answer 18

Rotation of the right side of the body toward the IR (right rotation)

Question 19

Which positioning error is classified as a repeatable error for an AP erect abdomen projection?
-Symphysis pubis not demonstrated on radiograph
-Erect marker not seen on radiograph
-Four-side collimation not evident on radiograph
-Diaphragm not demonstrated on radiograph

Answer 19

Diaphragm not demonstrated on radiograph

Question 20

A rotated lateral chest image demonstrates the heart shadow posterior to the sternum. Identify the anteriorly positioned lung.

Answer 20

Right