Abdominal x-ray enema through the rectum. The term "barium enema" usually refers to a lower gastrointestinal series, although enteroclysis (an upper gastrointestinal series) is often called a small bowel barium enema. Abdominal x-ray An abdominal x-ray is an x-ray of the abdomen. It is sometimes abbreviated to AXR, or KUB (for kidneys, ureters, and urinary bladder). In children, abdominal x-ray is indicated in the acute setting: Yet, CT scan is the best alternative for diagnosing intra-abdominal injury. For acute abdominal pain in adults, an abdominal x-ray has a low sensitivity and accuracy in general, as well as for specific conditions such as
Upper gastrointestinal series by a radiologist using a fluoroscope attached to a TV monitor. The radiologist takes a series of individual X-ray images at timed intervals depending on the areas to be studied. Sometimes medication which produces gas in the gastrointestinal tract is administered together with the Barium sulfate. This gas distends the gastrointestinal lumen, providing better imaging conditions and in this case the procedure is called double-contrast imaging. Clinical status and relevant medical history are reviewed prior to the studies. Patient consent is required. Little or no preparations are required for the study of the larynx, pharynx, and esophagus when studied alone.