Systematic Interpretation

In the systematic interpretation of an abdominal radiograph the following need to be considered:

Data

Before interpreting a film look at:

• Patient identifiers – name, DOB
• Date of x-ray
• Left/right markers

Adequacy

The abdominal x-ray should include the whole abdomen from diaphragm to hernial orifices. Laterally the properitoneal fat stripe should be included.

Bowels

Calcification

Abnormal air

Hernial orifices

Bony skeleton

Further specific films may be required if abnormalities are seen.