Abdominal X-Ray
(Flat Plate of the Abdomen; Kidneys, Ureter, Bladder; KUB)
Definition | Reasons for Test | Possible Complications | What to Expect | Results | Call Your Doctor
Definition
An x-ray creates pictures of organs in the body. This type of x-ray takes a picture of organs in the abdomen.
Abdominal Organs
Reasons for Test
Your doctor may order this test if there is a problem in your abdomen. The area includes everything from just under your chest to your pelvic area. Some symptoms that may make your doctor concerned include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain or side pain
- Bloating
- Blood in the urine
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Bloody or dark black stools
Possible Complications
Complications are rare. If you are planning to have an x-ray, your doctor will review a list of possible complications.
A x-ray does use radiation. You and your doctor will weigh the harms and benefits of this test. An x-ray may not be advised if you are pregnant. Be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor before the test.
What to Expect
Prior to Test
Usually no special preparation is needed.
You will remove your clothes and put on a hospital gown. You will also need to remove all metal items, like jewelry and watches.
Tell your doctor if you:
- Have taken any bismuth medicines (such as Pepto-Bismol) within the last four days
- Had a barium contrast x-ray within the last four days
- Are pregnant or could possibly be pregnant
Results
The x-ray may help your doctor find the source of your problem. If the x-ray shows an abnormality, you may need more testing such as:
- Ultrasound
- Abdominal and pelvic CT scan
Call Your Doctor
Call your doctor if you have any questions about the test, your condition, or your test results.
In case of an emergency, call for medical help right away.
American Urological Association
National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse
The Kidney Foundation of Canada
The Public Health Agency of Canada
Kidney, ureter, and bladder x-ray. John Hopkins Medical Center website. Available at: http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/healthlibrary/test_procedures/urology/kidney_ureter_and_bladder_x-ray_92,P07719/. Accessed November 10, 2012.
The Merck Manual website. Available at: http://www.merck.com/mmpe/index.html.
The Patient's Guide to Medical Tests. Yale University School of Medicine; 1997.
Last reviewed November 2012 by Brian Randall, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
