From the Guidelines
Yes, "XR ABDOMEN 1 VW" refers to a KUB (Kidneys, Ureters, Bladder) X-ray, which is a single-view abdominal X-ray that captures the abdominal region, including the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. The terminology "XR" stands for X-ray, "ABDOMEN" indicates the anatomical region being imaged, and "1 VW" means one view, typically an anteroposterior (AP) projection where the X-ray beam passes from front to back. KUB X-rays are commonly used to evaluate for kidney stones, bowel obstructions, abnormal calcifications, or foreign bodies in the abdomen, as noted in the study by 1. They can also help assess the general gas pattern in the intestines. While this type of X-ray provides limited information compared to more advanced imaging like CT scans, it serves as a useful initial screening tool due to its relatively low radiation dose, quick acquisition time, and widespread availability. According to the American College of Radiology, as stated in 1, CT abdomen and pelvis without IV contrast is usually appropriate for the initial imaging of acute onset flank pain and suspicion for urolithiasis, but KUB may be used as an initial screening tool in certain situations. However, the sensitivity of KUB for urolithiasis is limited, with a sensitivity of 72% for large stones and 29% overall, as reported in 1. Therefore, KUB X-rays should be used judiciously and in conjunction with other imaging modalities, such as CT scans, to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Some key points to consider when using KUB X-rays include:
- Limited sensitivity for detecting kidney stones, especially small ones
- Useful for evaluating bowel obstructions and abnormal calcifications
- Provides a general assessment of the gas pattern in the intestines
- Relatively low radiation dose and quick acquisition time
- May be used as an initial screening tool in certain situations, but should be used in conjunction with other imaging modalities.
From the Research
Abdominal Radiography
- XR ABDOMEN 1 VW is likely referring to a single view abdominal radiograph, which is sometimes used to diagnose abdominal issues such as kidney stones or bowel obstructions 2.
- This type of radiograph is often compared to CT scans, which provide more detailed images but may expose patients to higher levels of radiation 3, 2.
- However, a study found that low-dose CT scans may not always expose patients to more radiation than plain abdominal radiographs, especially in patients with higher weights or BMIs 2.
Diagnostic Tests
- Abdominal radiography is a widely available test with low radiation and has a positive predictive value of 90% for appendicitis, detecting appendicolith or periappendicular 'air silence' 3.
- Ultrasound and tomography are considered the most sensitive diagnostic tests for appendicitis, but abdominal radiography can be a useful initial test in ambiguous cases 3.
- Clinical bedside ultrasonography is also a useful tool for diagnosing acute epigastric pain, as it is rapid, noninvasive, and relatively inexpensive 4.
Comparison to KUB
- KUB (Kidney, Ureter, Bladder) radiographs are often used to diagnose kidney stones or other urinary tract issues 2.
- A study compared the effective doses of XR-KUBs with low-dose CT-KUBs and found that the average effective dose of XR-KUBs was 5.10 mSv, while the average effective dose of low-dose CT-KUBs was 5.31 mSv 2.
- The study suggests that low-dose CT-KUBs may be a better option than XR-KUBs for diagnosing urolithiasis, particularly in patients with high BMIs 2.