Abdomen X-Ray AP (Plain)
Objective
Bowel loops, organ outlines, gas distribution and radio-opaque calculi.
Positioning
Patient supine.
Arms along the sides.
Field from the diaphragmatic domes to the pubic symphysis.
Expiration at the moment of exposure.
Central ray: perpendicular to the IR.
Centering
Iliac crest (L4)
DR Parameters
75–85 kV · 20–30 mAs
SID ~100–115 cm · grid required
CR Parameters
75–85 kV · 30–50 mAs · SID ~100–115 cm
Quality criteria
Complete visualisation from the diaphragmatic domes to the pubic symphysis.
No rotation.
Good organ outline definition.
Common errors
Diaphragmatic domes or pubic symphysis not included.
Patient rotation.
Exposure on inspiration.
Practical notes
Check for metallic objects.
Expose on expiration.
Verify compliance with national DRL for this projection.