Clinique Pasteur Tunis
Plain abdominal X-ray (AXR) and KUB X-ray
Centres/Radiology/Conventional radiology/Abdominal X-ray

Plain abdominal X-ray (AXR) and KUB X-ray

Abdominal X-ray in Tunis, Tunisia · Centre Urbain Nord

Plain abdominal X-ray and KUB X-ray in Tunis: looking for bowel obstruction, urinary stones or a swallowed foreign body.

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What is it?

A plain abdominal X-ray is a simple X-ray of the abdomen, without contrast agent. It shows how gas is distributed in the bowel, some stones and any swallowed objects. The KUB X-ray (kidneys, ureters, bladder) is a variant centred on the urinary tract: it is mainly used to look for or monitor urinary stones visible on X-rays. Depending on the question, the image is taken lying down, standing, or in both positions; additional views may be added. Today, ultrasound and CT scans often complement or replace this examination: your doctor chooses the most suitable one.

When is it indicated?

Suspected bowel obstruction

Swollen abdomen, vomiting, no wind or stools: the X-ray shows an abnormal distribution of gas and fluid.

Renal colic and urinary stones

The KUB X-ray looks for visible stones and helps monitor how they evolve or pass.

Swallowed foreign body

Especially in children, it locates a swallowed metal object (coin, battery) and follows its progress.

Checking the position of a device

It checks the position of a ureteral stent (double J stent) or another device.

Preparation

1Tell us before the examination if you are pregnant or think you might be
2Remove belt, buckles, navel piercing and any metal object around the abdomen
3Wear simple clothes that are easy to take off; a gown may be provided
4This is a quick examination: no fasting or special preparation is usually needed
5Bring your referral and any previous X-rays or reports of the same area

Procedure

1

You remove clothing and metal objects from the area being examined, in a changing cubicle

2

You lie on your back on the table and/or stand against the plate, as requested

3

During each image you need to keep still for a few seconds; you may be asked to hold your breath

4

The standing image shows fluid and gas levels, which are useful in case of obstruction

5

The radiographer checks that the images are sharp before you get dressed

6

After the examination, you can return to your usual activities straight away

Duration

About 5 to 15 minutes

Results

The images are analysed by a radiologist, who writes a report. It is given to you with the images and sent to your doctor, who will explain the results and the next steps. You will be told on the day of the examination when the results will be ready.

Precautions and contraindications

Low X-ray dose; an X-ray is painless and leaves nothing behind in the body
During pregnancy, this examination is avoided because the uterus is in the X-ray field; ultrasound is preferred
Not all stones are visible on X-rays: an ultrasound or CT scan may be needed
Only the position may be slightly uncomfortable if you are in pain or injured; the team adapts how you are positioned

Your doctor and the radiology team will inform you in detail before the examination. Feel free to ask them your questions.

This information is general and does not replace the advice of your doctor, who chooses the examination suited to your situation.

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Radiology centre direct line+216 36 402 036Clinic switchboard+216 36 402 000

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