What extends from the diaphragm to the bony pelvis?
Abdominopelvic cavity
Consists of two parts: abdominal cavity and pelvic cavity.
What structures are contained within the abdominal cavity?
- Stomach
- Small intestines
- Large intestines
- Liver
- Gallbladder
- Spleen
- Pancreas
- Kidneys
These are the major organs found in the abdominal cavity.
What structures are contained within the pelvic cavity?
- Rectum
- Sigmoid
- Urinary bladder
- Reproductive organs
These are the major organs found in the pelvic cavity.
What is the peritoneum?
A double-walled membranous sac that encloses the abdominopelvic cavity
It consists of an inner layer (visceral peritoneum) and an outer layer (parietal peritoneum).
What are peritoneal folds?
- Mesentery
- Omenta
These structures support the internal organs in position.
Where do the kidneys and pancreas lie?
In the retroperitoneum
The retroperitoneum is the space behind the peritoneum.
Which two of the following are in the retroperitoneum? (Select two)
- Kidneys
- Pancreas
Other options like rectum, urinary bladder, ovaries, and spleen are not in the retroperitoneum.
What should be considered for general positioning of the abdomen?
- Exposure technique
- Immobilization
- Image receptor (IR)/Collimation size
- Source-to-image receptor distance (SID)
- Identification (ID) markers
- Radiation protection
- Patient instructions
These are essential considerations for effective abdominal imaging.
What is a prime requisite in abdominal examinations?
Prevent voluntary and involuntary movement
Movement can lead to blurred outlines in imaging.
What steps can be taken to prevent movement during an abdominal examination?
- Adjust the patient in a comfortable position
- Explain the breathing procedures
- Take the exposure 1-2 seconds after respiration is suspended
These steps help to minimize motion artifacts.
What is the recommended SID for abdomen radiography?
40 inches (102 cm)
Maintaining this distance is crucial for optimal imaging.
What must be included on the IR during an abdominal examination?
Right or left side markers
Markers should be placed clear of the anatomy of interest.
When should exposures for abdominal procedures generally be made?
At end of expiration
This practice avoids compression of organs.
What are the essential projections of the abdomen?
- Anteroposterior (AP), supine
- Anteroposterior (AP), upright
- Posteroanterior (PA), upright
- AP, left lateral decubitus
- Lateral, R or L
- Lateral, R or L dorsal decubitus
These projections provide comprehensive imaging of the abdomen.
What is a three-way abdomen series?
- AP, supine
- AP, upright
- PA chest, upright
This series is commonly requested to demonstrate abdominal contents, free air, and air-fluid levels.
What is the preferred patient position for an AP abdomen examination?
Supine, without rotation
This position is favored over upright for better imaging.
What structures are shown in an AP abdomen, supine projection?
- Size and shape of the liver
- Spleen
- Kidneys
- Intra-abdominal calcifications
- Evidence of tumor masses
These structures are crucial for diagnosis.
What is the central ray (CR) for an AP abdomen, supine projection?
Perpendicular to IR, enters patient on MSP at level of iliac crests
This positioning is essential for accurate imaging.
What is the evaluation criteria for an AP abdomen, supine projection?
- Pubic symphysis to upper abdomen
- Proper patient alignment
- No rotation of patient
- Adequate exposure factors
These criteria ensure quality images.
What is the central ray (CR) for an AP abdomen, upright projection?
Perpendicular and horizontal, centered to IR at a level 2 inches (5 cm) above iliac crests
This positioning helps to visualize the diaphragm.
What should be done if the patient cannot stand for an upright projection?
Perform a left lateral decubitus
This alternative provides similar information without requiring the patient to stand.
What structures are evaluated in a left lateral decubitus position?
- Free air
- Air-fluid levels
- Diaphragm
This position is useful for assessing fluid and air distribution in the abdomen.
What is the purpose of using a gonadal shield during abdominal imaging?
To reduce gonadal dose and patient anxiety
This practice is in accordance with state regulations.
Which of the following might be used to demonstrate a pneumoperitoneum?
All of the above
Includes upright AP projection, left lateral decubitus, and dorsal decubitus.
