This test is an x-ray that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the abdomen.
This test is used when there is a concern that there is a problem in your abdomen. Some symptoms that may make your doctor concerned include:
You may be asked not to eat or drink anything for four hours before your test.
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:
You will lie flat on your back under the x-ray machine and remain still while the x-ray is taken. You may be asked to shift to other positions for more x-rays.
You will be able to leave after the test is done.
About 10 minutes
No
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, which may include:
RESOURCES:
American Urological Association
http://urologyhealth.org/
National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse
http://kidney.niddk.nih.gov/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Health Network
http://www.canadian-health-network.ca/
The Kidney Foundation of Canada
http://www.kidney.ab.ca/
References:
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 October 2009 by Brian P. 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.
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