chapter 4 Flashcards
What are the two parts of the abdominopelvic cavity?
Abdominal cavity and pelvic cavity
Which structures are contained in the abdominal cavity?
- Stomach
- Small intestines
- Large intestines
- Liver
- Gallbladder
- Spleen
- Pancreas
- Kidneys
Which structures are contained in the pelvic cavity?
- Rectum
- Sigmoid
- Urinary bladder
- Reproductive organs
What is the peritoneum?
A double-walled membranous sac that encloses the abdominopelvic cavity
What are the two layers of the peritoneum?
- Visceral peritoneum
- Parietal peritoneum
What is the peritoneal cavity?
The space between the two layers of the peritoneum that contains serous fluid
What is the retroperitoneum?
The space behind the peritoneum where the kidneys and pancreas lie
Which two structures are located in the retroperitoneum?
- Kidneys
- Pancreas
The pelvic cavity contains all the following EXCEPT?
Gallbladder
What is imperative for obtaining maximal soft tissue differentiation in abdominal imaging?
Visibility of solid organs and adjacent structures
What should be adjusted to prevent movement during abdominal examinations?
Adjust the patient in a comfortable position and explain the breathing procedures
What is the recommended SID for abdomen radiography?
40 inches (102 cm)
True or False: Right or left side markers must be included on the IR.
True
What should be done to reduce patient anxiety during an abdominal examination?
Use a gonadal shield according to state regulations
What are the essential projections for an abdominal exam?
- Anteroposterior (AP)
- Supine
- Upright
What does a three-way abdomen series demonstrate?
- Abdominal contents
- Presence of free air (pneumoperitoneum)
- Air-fluid levels
What does a two-way abdomen series usually require?
- AP, supine
- AP, upright
What is the preferred patient position for an AP abdomen?
Supine, without rotation
What is the central ray (CR) for an AP abdomen, supine?
Perpendicular to IR, enters at level of iliac crests
What structures should be shown in an AP abdomen, supine?
- Size and shape of the liver
- Spleen
- Kidneys
- Intra-abdominal calcifications or evidence of tumor masses
What is the evaluation criteria for an AP abdomen, supine?
- Centered vertebral column
- Ribs, pelvis, and hips equidistant to the image edges
- No rotation of patient
What is the central ray (CR) for an AP abdomen, upright?
Perpendicular and horizontal, centered to IR at a level 2 inches (5 cm) above iliac crests
What structures are shown in an AP abdomen, upright?
- Size and shape of the liver
- Spleen
- Kidneys
- Intra-abdominal calcifications or evidence of tumor masses
What is the purpose of the left lateral decubitus position in abdomen imaging?
To demonstrate free air and air-fluid levels
