Plain picture in acute abdomen

127
Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof). R. K. Gogoi Presenter: Dr. Sarbesh Tiwari

Transcript of Plain picture in acute abdomen

Page 1: Plain picture in acute abdomen

Plain picture in acute abdomen

Moderator-Dr (Prof) R K Gogoi

Presenter Dr Sarbesh Tiwari

>

INTRODUCTION

bull Acute abdomen refers to presence of severe abdominal pain developing suddenly or over a period of several hours

bull Most frequent reasons for presentation at the emergency department (ED)

bull It requires a clinician to make an urgent therapeutic decision

Plain Radiography

bull Plain abdominal radiography is traditionally the first radiological investigation in acute abdomen

bull Interpretation of plain films presents with formidable challenge because though specific diagnosis can be made not infrequently the appearance are non specific and misleading

Basic radiographs

amp

Erect abdomen

Left lateral decubitus (right side raised) are taken to add information

Patient to remain in given position ndash 10 minutes

A supine Abdomen radiograph

Erect Chest x ray

Basic standard radiographs

Erect chest radiograph

o Small pneumoperitoneum can be detected

o Various chest conditions may mimic an acute abdomen

o Acute abdominal conditions may be complicated by chest pathology

o Even a normal chest radiograph acts as a baseline and helps in detection of post operative complication

Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen

1 Pneumonia

2 Myocardial Infarction

3 Pulmonary Infarction

4 Congestive cardiac failure

5 Pericarditis

6 Leaking or dessecting thoracic aortic aneurysm

7 Pneumothorax

8 Pleurisy

Abdominal radiographs (kv60-65 short exposure time)

o Supine abdominal radiograph- Distribution of gas Calibre of bowel Displacement of bowel Obliteration of fat lines

o Erect abdominal radiograph- fluid level and free gas

o Horizontal-ray films( erect or lateral decubitus)- free intra- abdominal air fluid levels

TECHNIQUE standard projection

bull supine with knee slightly flexed

bull centered at iliac crest

bull Exposure during expiration

bull Low kV (60-75 kV)

bull Short exposure time to avoid motion

bull Both the lung bases and the pubic symphysis included

Anteroposterior supine

Supplemental projectionsbull Ideally tilting x ray

table with potter Bucky diaphragm used to reduce distress to patient

bull 14rdquo- 17rdquo film high mA short exposure time increased 7-10 kVp over supine

bull Centered just above umbilicus in midline

Abdomen AP erect

ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS

bull Prone Oblique Lateralbull For better definition and localization of

bull mass lesionsbull calcificationsbull herniations

bull A prone radiograph is useful when distal colonic obstruction is suspected

11

RADIATION EXPOSURE

bull One PP abdomen exposes a patient to 07 mSv of radiation equivalent to 35 chest radiograph

bull Gonadal shielding should be used if gonads lie within 5 cm of the primary beam if clinical objective is not compromised

12

NORMAL GAS PATTERN

bull Stomach

- alwaysbull Small bowel

- 2 or 3 loops of non-distended bowel

- normal diameter = 25 cmbull Larger bowel

- in rectum or sigmoid colon - always

NORMAL FLUID LEVELS

bull Stomach- always (except supine film)

bull Small bowel- 2 or 3 levels possible

bull Large bowel- none normally

DISEASE ENTITY

PNEUMOPERITONEUM

bull Pneumoperitoneum refers to the presence of free gas within the peritoneal cavity

bull Almost always caused by perforation of hollow viscus

bull Perforated duodenal ulcer is the most frequent cause

19

CAUSES1 Perforationbull Peptic ulcer diseasebull Inflammation- Diverticulitis toxic megacolonnecrotizing

enterocolitisbull Infractionbull Pneumatosis coli- The cyst may rupturebull Maliganacybull Mechanical perforation following trauma

2 Iatrogenicbull Abdominal surgerybull Peritoneal dialysis

3 Pneumothorax- due to congenital pleuroperitoneal fistula

4Introduction per vaginum- eg douching

20

RADIOGRAPHY

bull Optimal radiographic technique is important

bull At least 2 radiographsbull a supine abdominal radiograph and bull either an erect chest image or a left lateral decubitus

image

bull The patient should remain in position for 5-10 minutes before a horizontal-beam radiograph is acquired

bull As minimal as 1ml of free gas could be detected by proper technique

21

Signs in pneumoperitoneum

Erect chest radiograph reveals free gas between the liver and both does of diaphragm

22

Left lateral decubitus film showing gas between the liver and abdominal wall

23

Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiographbull Right upper quadrant gas

Peri hepatic

Sub hepatic

Morrisonrsquos pouch

bull Fissure for ligament teres

bull Riglerrsquos (double wall sign)

bull Ligament visualization

Falciform

Umbilical inverted lsquoVrsquo sign

bull Triangular air

bull The cupola sign

bull Football or air dome

bull Scrotal air in children

24

Gas in subhepatic space

Supine abdominal radiograph shows an elliptical collection of air within the subhepatic space

25

Doges cap sign

bull Doges Cap sign refers to free air in Morrisons pouch

bull Morrisons pouch is normally a potential space between the right kidney and the liver

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 2: Plain picture in acute abdomen

INTRODUCTION

bull Acute abdomen refers to presence of severe abdominal pain developing suddenly or over a period of several hours

bull Most frequent reasons for presentation at the emergency department (ED)

bull It requires a clinician to make an urgent therapeutic decision

Plain Radiography

bull Plain abdominal radiography is traditionally the first radiological investigation in acute abdomen

bull Interpretation of plain films presents with formidable challenge because though specific diagnosis can be made not infrequently the appearance are non specific and misleading

Basic radiographs

amp

Erect abdomen

Left lateral decubitus (right side raised) are taken to add information

Patient to remain in given position ndash 10 minutes

A supine Abdomen radiograph

Erect Chest x ray

Basic standard radiographs

Erect chest radiograph

o Small pneumoperitoneum can be detected

o Various chest conditions may mimic an acute abdomen

o Acute abdominal conditions may be complicated by chest pathology

o Even a normal chest radiograph acts as a baseline and helps in detection of post operative complication

Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen

1 Pneumonia

2 Myocardial Infarction

3 Pulmonary Infarction

4 Congestive cardiac failure

5 Pericarditis

6 Leaking or dessecting thoracic aortic aneurysm

7 Pneumothorax

8 Pleurisy

Abdominal radiographs (kv60-65 short exposure time)

o Supine abdominal radiograph- Distribution of gas Calibre of bowel Displacement of bowel Obliteration of fat lines

o Erect abdominal radiograph- fluid level and free gas

o Horizontal-ray films( erect or lateral decubitus)- free intra- abdominal air fluid levels

TECHNIQUE standard projection

bull supine with knee slightly flexed

bull centered at iliac crest

bull Exposure during expiration

bull Low kV (60-75 kV)

bull Short exposure time to avoid motion

bull Both the lung bases and the pubic symphysis included

Anteroposterior supine

Supplemental projectionsbull Ideally tilting x ray

table with potter Bucky diaphragm used to reduce distress to patient

bull 14rdquo- 17rdquo film high mA short exposure time increased 7-10 kVp over supine

bull Centered just above umbilicus in midline

Abdomen AP erect

ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS

bull Prone Oblique Lateralbull For better definition and localization of

bull mass lesionsbull calcificationsbull herniations

bull A prone radiograph is useful when distal colonic obstruction is suspected

11

RADIATION EXPOSURE

bull One PP abdomen exposes a patient to 07 mSv of radiation equivalent to 35 chest radiograph

bull Gonadal shielding should be used if gonads lie within 5 cm of the primary beam if clinical objective is not compromised

12

NORMAL GAS PATTERN

bull Stomach

- alwaysbull Small bowel

- 2 or 3 loops of non-distended bowel

- normal diameter = 25 cmbull Larger bowel

- in rectum or sigmoid colon - always

NORMAL FLUID LEVELS

bull Stomach- always (except supine film)

bull Small bowel- 2 or 3 levels possible

bull Large bowel- none normally

DISEASE ENTITY

PNEUMOPERITONEUM

bull Pneumoperitoneum refers to the presence of free gas within the peritoneal cavity

bull Almost always caused by perforation of hollow viscus

bull Perforated duodenal ulcer is the most frequent cause

19

CAUSES1 Perforationbull Peptic ulcer diseasebull Inflammation- Diverticulitis toxic megacolonnecrotizing

enterocolitisbull Infractionbull Pneumatosis coli- The cyst may rupturebull Maliganacybull Mechanical perforation following trauma

2 Iatrogenicbull Abdominal surgerybull Peritoneal dialysis

3 Pneumothorax- due to congenital pleuroperitoneal fistula

4Introduction per vaginum- eg douching

20

RADIOGRAPHY

bull Optimal radiographic technique is important

bull At least 2 radiographsbull a supine abdominal radiograph and bull either an erect chest image or a left lateral decubitus

image

bull The patient should remain in position for 5-10 minutes before a horizontal-beam radiograph is acquired

bull As minimal as 1ml of free gas could be detected by proper technique

21

Signs in pneumoperitoneum

Erect chest radiograph reveals free gas between the liver and both does of diaphragm

22

Left lateral decubitus film showing gas between the liver and abdominal wall

23

Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiographbull Right upper quadrant gas

Peri hepatic

Sub hepatic

Morrisonrsquos pouch

bull Fissure for ligament teres

bull Riglerrsquos (double wall sign)

bull Ligament visualization

Falciform

Umbilical inverted lsquoVrsquo sign

bull Triangular air

bull The cupola sign

bull Football or air dome

bull Scrotal air in children

24

Gas in subhepatic space

Supine abdominal radiograph shows an elliptical collection of air within the subhepatic space

25

Doges cap sign

bull Doges Cap sign refers to free air in Morrisons pouch

bull Morrisons pouch is normally a potential space between the right kidney and the liver

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 3: Plain picture in acute abdomen

Plain Radiography

bull Plain abdominal radiography is traditionally the first radiological investigation in acute abdomen

bull Interpretation of plain films presents with formidable challenge because though specific diagnosis can be made not infrequently the appearance are non specific and misleading

Basic radiographs

amp

Erect abdomen

Left lateral decubitus (right side raised) are taken to add information

Patient to remain in given position ndash 10 minutes

A supine Abdomen radiograph

Erect Chest x ray

Basic standard radiographs

Erect chest radiograph

o Small pneumoperitoneum can be detected

o Various chest conditions may mimic an acute abdomen

o Acute abdominal conditions may be complicated by chest pathology

o Even a normal chest radiograph acts as a baseline and helps in detection of post operative complication

Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen

1 Pneumonia

2 Myocardial Infarction

3 Pulmonary Infarction

4 Congestive cardiac failure

5 Pericarditis

6 Leaking or dessecting thoracic aortic aneurysm

7 Pneumothorax

8 Pleurisy

Abdominal radiographs (kv60-65 short exposure time)

o Supine abdominal radiograph- Distribution of gas Calibre of bowel Displacement of bowel Obliteration of fat lines

o Erect abdominal radiograph- fluid level and free gas

o Horizontal-ray films( erect or lateral decubitus)- free intra- abdominal air fluid levels

TECHNIQUE standard projection

bull supine with knee slightly flexed

bull centered at iliac crest

bull Exposure during expiration

bull Low kV (60-75 kV)

bull Short exposure time to avoid motion

bull Both the lung bases and the pubic symphysis included

Anteroposterior supine

Supplemental projectionsbull Ideally tilting x ray

table with potter Bucky diaphragm used to reduce distress to patient

bull 14rdquo- 17rdquo film high mA short exposure time increased 7-10 kVp over supine

bull Centered just above umbilicus in midline

Abdomen AP erect

ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS

bull Prone Oblique Lateralbull For better definition and localization of

bull mass lesionsbull calcificationsbull herniations

bull A prone radiograph is useful when distal colonic obstruction is suspected

11

RADIATION EXPOSURE

bull One PP abdomen exposes a patient to 07 mSv of radiation equivalent to 35 chest radiograph

bull Gonadal shielding should be used if gonads lie within 5 cm of the primary beam if clinical objective is not compromised

12

NORMAL GAS PATTERN

bull Stomach

- alwaysbull Small bowel

- 2 or 3 loops of non-distended bowel

- normal diameter = 25 cmbull Larger bowel

- in rectum or sigmoid colon - always

NORMAL FLUID LEVELS

bull Stomach- always (except supine film)

bull Small bowel- 2 or 3 levels possible

bull Large bowel- none normally

DISEASE ENTITY

PNEUMOPERITONEUM

bull Pneumoperitoneum refers to the presence of free gas within the peritoneal cavity

bull Almost always caused by perforation of hollow viscus

bull Perforated duodenal ulcer is the most frequent cause

19

CAUSES1 Perforationbull Peptic ulcer diseasebull Inflammation- Diverticulitis toxic megacolonnecrotizing

enterocolitisbull Infractionbull Pneumatosis coli- The cyst may rupturebull Maliganacybull Mechanical perforation following trauma

2 Iatrogenicbull Abdominal surgerybull Peritoneal dialysis

3 Pneumothorax- due to congenital pleuroperitoneal fistula

4Introduction per vaginum- eg douching

20

RADIOGRAPHY

bull Optimal radiographic technique is important

bull At least 2 radiographsbull a supine abdominal radiograph and bull either an erect chest image or a left lateral decubitus

image

bull The patient should remain in position for 5-10 minutes before a horizontal-beam radiograph is acquired

bull As minimal as 1ml of free gas could be detected by proper technique

21

Signs in pneumoperitoneum

Erect chest radiograph reveals free gas between the liver and both does of diaphragm

22

Left lateral decubitus film showing gas between the liver and abdominal wall

23

Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiographbull Right upper quadrant gas

Peri hepatic

Sub hepatic

Morrisonrsquos pouch

bull Fissure for ligament teres

bull Riglerrsquos (double wall sign)

bull Ligament visualization

Falciform

Umbilical inverted lsquoVrsquo sign

bull Triangular air

bull The cupola sign

bull Football or air dome

bull Scrotal air in children

24

Gas in subhepatic space

Supine abdominal radiograph shows an elliptical collection of air within the subhepatic space

25

Doges cap sign

bull Doges Cap sign refers to free air in Morrisons pouch

bull Morrisons pouch is normally a potential space between the right kidney and the liver

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 4: Plain picture in acute abdomen

Basic radiographs

amp

Erect abdomen

Left lateral decubitus (right side raised) are taken to add information

Patient to remain in given position ndash 10 minutes

A supine Abdomen radiograph

Erect Chest x ray

Basic standard radiographs

Erect chest radiograph

o Small pneumoperitoneum can be detected

o Various chest conditions may mimic an acute abdomen

o Acute abdominal conditions may be complicated by chest pathology

o Even a normal chest radiograph acts as a baseline and helps in detection of post operative complication

Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen

1 Pneumonia

2 Myocardial Infarction

3 Pulmonary Infarction

4 Congestive cardiac failure

5 Pericarditis

6 Leaking or dessecting thoracic aortic aneurysm

7 Pneumothorax

8 Pleurisy

Abdominal radiographs (kv60-65 short exposure time)

o Supine abdominal radiograph- Distribution of gas Calibre of bowel Displacement of bowel Obliteration of fat lines

o Erect abdominal radiograph- fluid level and free gas

o Horizontal-ray films( erect or lateral decubitus)- free intra- abdominal air fluid levels

TECHNIQUE standard projection

bull supine with knee slightly flexed

bull centered at iliac crest

bull Exposure during expiration

bull Low kV (60-75 kV)

bull Short exposure time to avoid motion

bull Both the lung bases and the pubic symphysis included

Anteroposterior supine

Supplemental projectionsbull Ideally tilting x ray

table with potter Bucky diaphragm used to reduce distress to patient

bull 14rdquo- 17rdquo film high mA short exposure time increased 7-10 kVp over supine

bull Centered just above umbilicus in midline

Abdomen AP erect

ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS

bull Prone Oblique Lateralbull For better definition and localization of

bull mass lesionsbull calcificationsbull herniations

bull A prone radiograph is useful when distal colonic obstruction is suspected

11

RADIATION EXPOSURE

bull One PP abdomen exposes a patient to 07 mSv of radiation equivalent to 35 chest radiograph

bull Gonadal shielding should be used if gonads lie within 5 cm of the primary beam if clinical objective is not compromised

12

NORMAL GAS PATTERN

bull Stomach

- alwaysbull Small bowel

- 2 or 3 loops of non-distended bowel

- normal diameter = 25 cmbull Larger bowel

- in rectum or sigmoid colon - always

NORMAL FLUID LEVELS

bull Stomach- always (except supine film)

bull Small bowel- 2 or 3 levels possible

bull Large bowel- none normally

DISEASE ENTITY

PNEUMOPERITONEUM

bull Pneumoperitoneum refers to the presence of free gas within the peritoneal cavity

bull Almost always caused by perforation of hollow viscus

bull Perforated duodenal ulcer is the most frequent cause

19

CAUSES1 Perforationbull Peptic ulcer diseasebull Inflammation- Diverticulitis toxic megacolonnecrotizing

enterocolitisbull Infractionbull Pneumatosis coli- The cyst may rupturebull Maliganacybull Mechanical perforation following trauma

2 Iatrogenicbull Abdominal surgerybull Peritoneal dialysis

3 Pneumothorax- due to congenital pleuroperitoneal fistula

4Introduction per vaginum- eg douching

20

RADIOGRAPHY

bull Optimal radiographic technique is important

bull At least 2 radiographsbull a supine abdominal radiograph and bull either an erect chest image or a left lateral decubitus

image

bull The patient should remain in position for 5-10 minutes before a horizontal-beam radiograph is acquired

bull As minimal as 1ml of free gas could be detected by proper technique

21

Signs in pneumoperitoneum

Erect chest radiograph reveals free gas between the liver and both does of diaphragm

22

Left lateral decubitus film showing gas between the liver and abdominal wall

23

Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiographbull Right upper quadrant gas

Peri hepatic

Sub hepatic

Morrisonrsquos pouch

bull Fissure for ligament teres

bull Riglerrsquos (double wall sign)

bull Ligament visualization

Falciform

Umbilical inverted lsquoVrsquo sign

bull Triangular air

bull The cupola sign

bull Football or air dome

bull Scrotal air in children

24

Gas in subhepatic space

Supine abdominal radiograph shows an elliptical collection of air within the subhepatic space

25

Doges cap sign

bull Doges Cap sign refers to free air in Morrisons pouch

bull Morrisons pouch is normally a potential space between the right kidney and the liver

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 5: Plain picture in acute abdomen

Erect chest radiograph

o Small pneumoperitoneum can be detected

o Various chest conditions may mimic an acute abdomen

o Acute abdominal conditions may be complicated by chest pathology

o Even a normal chest radiograph acts as a baseline and helps in detection of post operative complication

Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen

1 Pneumonia

2 Myocardial Infarction

3 Pulmonary Infarction

4 Congestive cardiac failure

5 Pericarditis

6 Leaking or dessecting thoracic aortic aneurysm

7 Pneumothorax

8 Pleurisy

Abdominal radiographs (kv60-65 short exposure time)

o Supine abdominal radiograph- Distribution of gas Calibre of bowel Displacement of bowel Obliteration of fat lines

o Erect abdominal radiograph- fluid level and free gas

o Horizontal-ray films( erect or lateral decubitus)- free intra- abdominal air fluid levels

TECHNIQUE standard projection

bull supine with knee slightly flexed

bull centered at iliac crest

bull Exposure during expiration

bull Low kV (60-75 kV)

bull Short exposure time to avoid motion

bull Both the lung bases and the pubic symphysis included

Anteroposterior supine

Supplemental projectionsbull Ideally tilting x ray

table with potter Bucky diaphragm used to reduce distress to patient

bull 14rdquo- 17rdquo film high mA short exposure time increased 7-10 kVp over supine

bull Centered just above umbilicus in midline

Abdomen AP erect

ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS

bull Prone Oblique Lateralbull For better definition and localization of

bull mass lesionsbull calcificationsbull herniations

bull A prone radiograph is useful when distal colonic obstruction is suspected

11

RADIATION EXPOSURE

bull One PP abdomen exposes a patient to 07 mSv of radiation equivalent to 35 chest radiograph

bull Gonadal shielding should be used if gonads lie within 5 cm of the primary beam if clinical objective is not compromised

12

NORMAL GAS PATTERN

bull Stomach

- alwaysbull Small bowel

- 2 or 3 loops of non-distended bowel

- normal diameter = 25 cmbull Larger bowel

- in rectum or sigmoid colon - always

NORMAL FLUID LEVELS

bull Stomach- always (except supine film)

bull Small bowel- 2 or 3 levels possible

bull Large bowel- none normally

DISEASE ENTITY

PNEUMOPERITONEUM

bull Pneumoperitoneum refers to the presence of free gas within the peritoneal cavity

bull Almost always caused by perforation of hollow viscus

bull Perforated duodenal ulcer is the most frequent cause

19

CAUSES1 Perforationbull Peptic ulcer diseasebull Inflammation- Diverticulitis toxic megacolonnecrotizing

enterocolitisbull Infractionbull Pneumatosis coli- The cyst may rupturebull Maliganacybull Mechanical perforation following trauma

2 Iatrogenicbull Abdominal surgerybull Peritoneal dialysis

3 Pneumothorax- due to congenital pleuroperitoneal fistula

4Introduction per vaginum- eg douching

20

RADIOGRAPHY

bull Optimal radiographic technique is important

bull At least 2 radiographsbull a supine abdominal radiograph and bull either an erect chest image or a left lateral decubitus

image

bull The patient should remain in position for 5-10 minutes before a horizontal-beam radiograph is acquired

bull As minimal as 1ml of free gas could be detected by proper technique

21

Signs in pneumoperitoneum

Erect chest radiograph reveals free gas between the liver and both does of diaphragm

22

Left lateral decubitus film showing gas between the liver and abdominal wall

23

Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiographbull Right upper quadrant gas

Peri hepatic

Sub hepatic

Morrisonrsquos pouch

bull Fissure for ligament teres

bull Riglerrsquos (double wall sign)

bull Ligament visualization

Falciform

Umbilical inverted lsquoVrsquo sign

bull Triangular air

bull The cupola sign

bull Football or air dome

bull Scrotal air in children

24

Gas in subhepatic space

Supine abdominal radiograph shows an elliptical collection of air within the subhepatic space

25

Doges cap sign

bull Doges Cap sign refers to free air in Morrisons pouch

bull Morrisons pouch is normally a potential space between the right kidney and the liver

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 6: Plain picture in acute abdomen

Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen

1 Pneumonia

2 Myocardial Infarction

3 Pulmonary Infarction

4 Congestive cardiac failure

5 Pericarditis

6 Leaking or dessecting thoracic aortic aneurysm

7 Pneumothorax

8 Pleurisy

Abdominal radiographs (kv60-65 short exposure time)

o Supine abdominal radiograph- Distribution of gas Calibre of bowel Displacement of bowel Obliteration of fat lines

o Erect abdominal radiograph- fluid level and free gas

o Horizontal-ray films( erect or lateral decubitus)- free intra- abdominal air fluid levels

TECHNIQUE standard projection

bull supine with knee slightly flexed

bull centered at iliac crest

bull Exposure during expiration

bull Low kV (60-75 kV)

bull Short exposure time to avoid motion

bull Both the lung bases and the pubic symphysis included

Anteroposterior supine

Supplemental projectionsbull Ideally tilting x ray

table with potter Bucky diaphragm used to reduce distress to patient

bull 14rdquo- 17rdquo film high mA short exposure time increased 7-10 kVp over supine

bull Centered just above umbilicus in midline

Abdomen AP erect

ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS

bull Prone Oblique Lateralbull For better definition and localization of

bull mass lesionsbull calcificationsbull herniations

bull A prone radiograph is useful when distal colonic obstruction is suspected

11

RADIATION EXPOSURE

bull One PP abdomen exposes a patient to 07 mSv of radiation equivalent to 35 chest radiograph

bull Gonadal shielding should be used if gonads lie within 5 cm of the primary beam if clinical objective is not compromised

12

NORMAL GAS PATTERN

bull Stomach

- alwaysbull Small bowel

- 2 or 3 loops of non-distended bowel

- normal diameter = 25 cmbull Larger bowel

- in rectum or sigmoid colon - always

NORMAL FLUID LEVELS

bull Stomach- always (except supine film)

bull Small bowel- 2 or 3 levels possible

bull Large bowel- none normally

DISEASE ENTITY

PNEUMOPERITONEUM

bull Pneumoperitoneum refers to the presence of free gas within the peritoneal cavity

bull Almost always caused by perforation of hollow viscus

bull Perforated duodenal ulcer is the most frequent cause

19

CAUSES1 Perforationbull Peptic ulcer diseasebull Inflammation- Diverticulitis toxic megacolonnecrotizing

enterocolitisbull Infractionbull Pneumatosis coli- The cyst may rupturebull Maliganacybull Mechanical perforation following trauma

2 Iatrogenicbull Abdominal surgerybull Peritoneal dialysis

3 Pneumothorax- due to congenital pleuroperitoneal fistula

4Introduction per vaginum- eg douching

20

RADIOGRAPHY

bull Optimal radiographic technique is important

bull At least 2 radiographsbull a supine abdominal radiograph and bull either an erect chest image or a left lateral decubitus

image

bull The patient should remain in position for 5-10 minutes before a horizontal-beam radiograph is acquired

bull As minimal as 1ml of free gas could be detected by proper technique

21

Signs in pneumoperitoneum

Erect chest radiograph reveals free gas between the liver and both does of diaphragm

22

Left lateral decubitus film showing gas between the liver and abdominal wall

23

Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiographbull Right upper quadrant gas

Peri hepatic

Sub hepatic

Morrisonrsquos pouch

bull Fissure for ligament teres

bull Riglerrsquos (double wall sign)

bull Ligament visualization

Falciform

Umbilical inverted lsquoVrsquo sign

bull Triangular air

bull The cupola sign

bull Football or air dome

bull Scrotal air in children

24

Gas in subhepatic space

Supine abdominal radiograph shows an elliptical collection of air within the subhepatic space

25

Doges cap sign

bull Doges Cap sign refers to free air in Morrisons pouch

bull Morrisons pouch is normally a potential space between the right kidney and the liver

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 7: Plain picture in acute abdomen

Abdominal radiographs (kv60-65 short exposure time)

o Supine abdominal radiograph- Distribution of gas Calibre of bowel Displacement of bowel Obliteration of fat lines

o Erect abdominal radiograph- fluid level and free gas

o Horizontal-ray films( erect or lateral decubitus)- free intra- abdominal air fluid levels

TECHNIQUE standard projection

bull supine with knee slightly flexed

bull centered at iliac crest

bull Exposure during expiration

bull Low kV (60-75 kV)

bull Short exposure time to avoid motion

bull Both the lung bases and the pubic symphysis included

Anteroposterior supine

Supplemental projectionsbull Ideally tilting x ray

table with potter Bucky diaphragm used to reduce distress to patient

bull 14rdquo- 17rdquo film high mA short exposure time increased 7-10 kVp over supine

bull Centered just above umbilicus in midline

Abdomen AP erect

ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS

bull Prone Oblique Lateralbull For better definition and localization of

bull mass lesionsbull calcificationsbull herniations

bull A prone radiograph is useful when distal colonic obstruction is suspected

11

RADIATION EXPOSURE

bull One PP abdomen exposes a patient to 07 mSv of radiation equivalent to 35 chest radiograph

bull Gonadal shielding should be used if gonads lie within 5 cm of the primary beam if clinical objective is not compromised

12

NORMAL GAS PATTERN

bull Stomach

- alwaysbull Small bowel

- 2 or 3 loops of non-distended bowel

- normal diameter = 25 cmbull Larger bowel

- in rectum or sigmoid colon - always

NORMAL FLUID LEVELS

bull Stomach- always (except supine film)

bull Small bowel- 2 or 3 levels possible

bull Large bowel- none normally

DISEASE ENTITY

PNEUMOPERITONEUM

bull Pneumoperitoneum refers to the presence of free gas within the peritoneal cavity

bull Almost always caused by perforation of hollow viscus

bull Perforated duodenal ulcer is the most frequent cause

19

CAUSES1 Perforationbull Peptic ulcer diseasebull Inflammation- Diverticulitis toxic megacolonnecrotizing

enterocolitisbull Infractionbull Pneumatosis coli- The cyst may rupturebull Maliganacybull Mechanical perforation following trauma

2 Iatrogenicbull Abdominal surgerybull Peritoneal dialysis

3 Pneumothorax- due to congenital pleuroperitoneal fistula

4Introduction per vaginum- eg douching

20

RADIOGRAPHY

bull Optimal radiographic technique is important

bull At least 2 radiographsbull a supine abdominal radiograph and bull either an erect chest image or a left lateral decubitus

image

bull The patient should remain in position for 5-10 minutes before a horizontal-beam radiograph is acquired

bull As minimal as 1ml of free gas could be detected by proper technique

21

Signs in pneumoperitoneum

Erect chest radiograph reveals free gas between the liver and both does of diaphragm

22

Left lateral decubitus film showing gas between the liver and abdominal wall

23

Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiographbull Right upper quadrant gas

Peri hepatic

Sub hepatic

Morrisonrsquos pouch

bull Fissure for ligament teres

bull Riglerrsquos (double wall sign)

bull Ligament visualization

Falciform

Umbilical inverted lsquoVrsquo sign

bull Triangular air

bull The cupola sign

bull Football or air dome

bull Scrotal air in children

24

Gas in subhepatic space

Supine abdominal radiograph shows an elliptical collection of air within the subhepatic space

25

Doges cap sign

bull Doges Cap sign refers to free air in Morrisons pouch

bull Morrisons pouch is normally a potential space between the right kidney and the liver

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 8: Plain picture in acute abdomen

TECHNIQUE standard projection

bull supine with knee slightly flexed

bull centered at iliac crest

bull Exposure during expiration

bull Low kV (60-75 kV)

bull Short exposure time to avoid motion

bull Both the lung bases and the pubic symphysis included

Anteroposterior supine

Supplemental projectionsbull Ideally tilting x ray

table with potter Bucky diaphragm used to reduce distress to patient

bull 14rdquo- 17rdquo film high mA short exposure time increased 7-10 kVp over supine

bull Centered just above umbilicus in midline

Abdomen AP erect

ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS

bull Prone Oblique Lateralbull For better definition and localization of

bull mass lesionsbull calcificationsbull herniations

bull A prone radiograph is useful when distal colonic obstruction is suspected

11

RADIATION EXPOSURE

bull One PP abdomen exposes a patient to 07 mSv of radiation equivalent to 35 chest radiograph

bull Gonadal shielding should be used if gonads lie within 5 cm of the primary beam if clinical objective is not compromised

12

NORMAL GAS PATTERN

bull Stomach

- alwaysbull Small bowel

- 2 or 3 loops of non-distended bowel

- normal diameter = 25 cmbull Larger bowel

- in rectum or sigmoid colon - always

NORMAL FLUID LEVELS

bull Stomach- always (except supine film)

bull Small bowel- 2 or 3 levels possible

bull Large bowel- none normally

DISEASE ENTITY

PNEUMOPERITONEUM

bull Pneumoperitoneum refers to the presence of free gas within the peritoneal cavity

bull Almost always caused by perforation of hollow viscus

bull Perforated duodenal ulcer is the most frequent cause

19

CAUSES1 Perforationbull Peptic ulcer diseasebull Inflammation- Diverticulitis toxic megacolonnecrotizing

enterocolitisbull Infractionbull Pneumatosis coli- The cyst may rupturebull Maliganacybull Mechanical perforation following trauma

2 Iatrogenicbull Abdominal surgerybull Peritoneal dialysis

3 Pneumothorax- due to congenital pleuroperitoneal fistula

4Introduction per vaginum- eg douching

20

RADIOGRAPHY

bull Optimal radiographic technique is important

bull At least 2 radiographsbull a supine abdominal radiograph and bull either an erect chest image or a left lateral decubitus

image

bull The patient should remain in position for 5-10 minutes before a horizontal-beam radiograph is acquired

bull As minimal as 1ml of free gas could be detected by proper technique

21

Signs in pneumoperitoneum

Erect chest radiograph reveals free gas between the liver and both does of diaphragm

22

Left lateral decubitus film showing gas between the liver and abdominal wall

23

Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiographbull Right upper quadrant gas

Peri hepatic

Sub hepatic

Morrisonrsquos pouch

bull Fissure for ligament teres

bull Riglerrsquos (double wall sign)

bull Ligament visualization

Falciform

Umbilical inverted lsquoVrsquo sign

bull Triangular air

bull The cupola sign

bull Football or air dome

bull Scrotal air in children

24

Gas in subhepatic space

Supine abdominal radiograph shows an elliptical collection of air within the subhepatic space

25

Doges cap sign

bull Doges Cap sign refers to free air in Morrisons pouch

bull Morrisons pouch is normally a potential space between the right kidney and the liver

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 9: Plain picture in acute abdomen

Supplemental projectionsbull Ideally tilting x ray

table with potter Bucky diaphragm used to reduce distress to patient

bull 14rdquo- 17rdquo film high mA short exposure time increased 7-10 kVp over supine

bull Centered just above umbilicus in midline

Abdomen AP erect

ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS

bull Prone Oblique Lateralbull For better definition and localization of

bull mass lesionsbull calcificationsbull herniations

bull A prone radiograph is useful when distal colonic obstruction is suspected

11

RADIATION EXPOSURE

bull One PP abdomen exposes a patient to 07 mSv of radiation equivalent to 35 chest radiograph

bull Gonadal shielding should be used if gonads lie within 5 cm of the primary beam if clinical objective is not compromised

12

NORMAL GAS PATTERN

bull Stomach

- alwaysbull Small bowel

- 2 or 3 loops of non-distended bowel

- normal diameter = 25 cmbull Larger bowel

- in rectum or sigmoid colon - always

NORMAL FLUID LEVELS

bull Stomach- always (except supine film)

bull Small bowel- 2 or 3 levels possible

bull Large bowel- none normally

DISEASE ENTITY

PNEUMOPERITONEUM

bull Pneumoperitoneum refers to the presence of free gas within the peritoneal cavity

bull Almost always caused by perforation of hollow viscus

bull Perforated duodenal ulcer is the most frequent cause

19

CAUSES1 Perforationbull Peptic ulcer diseasebull Inflammation- Diverticulitis toxic megacolonnecrotizing

enterocolitisbull Infractionbull Pneumatosis coli- The cyst may rupturebull Maliganacybull Mechanical perforation following trauma

2 Iatrogenicbull Abdominal surgerybull Peritoneal dialysis

3 Pneumothorax- due to congenital pleuroperitoneal fistula

4Introduction per vaginum- eg douching

20

RADIOGRAPHY

bull Optimal radiographic technique is important

bull At least 2 radiographsbull a supine abdominal radiograph and bull either an erect chest image or a left lateral decubitus

image

bull The patient should remain in position for 5-10 minutes before a horizontal-beam radiograph is acquired

bull As minimal as 1ml of free gas could be detected by proper technique

21

Signs in pneumoperitoneum

Erect chest radiograph reveals free gas between the liver and both does of diaphragm

22

Left lateral decubitus film showing gas between the liver and abdominal wall

23

Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiographbull Right upper quadrant gas

Peri hepatic

Sub hepatic

Morrisonrsquos pouch

bull Fissure for ligament teres

bull Riglerrsquos (double wall sign)

bull Ligament visualization

Falciform

Umbilical inverted lsquoVrsquo sign

bull Triangular air

bull The cupola sign

bull Football or air dome

bull Scrotal air in children

24

Gas in subhepatic space

Supine abdominal radiograph shows an elliptical collection of air within the subhepatic space

25

Doges cap sign

bull Doges Cap sign refers to free air in Morrisons pouch

bull Morrisons pouch is normally a potential space between the right kidney and the liver

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 10: Plain picture in acute abdomen

ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS

bull Prone Oblique Lateralbull For better definition and localization of

bull mass lesionsbull calcificationsbull herniations

bull A prone radiograph is useful when distal colonic obstruction is suspected

11

RADIATION EXPOSURE

bull One PP abdomen exposes a patient to 07 mSv of radiation equivalent to 35 chest radiograph

bull Gonadal shielding should be used if gonads lie within 5 cm of the primary beam if clinical objective is not compromised

12

NORMAL GAS PATTERN

bull Stomach

- alwaysbull Small bowel

- 2 or 3 loops of non-distended bowel

- normal diameter = 25 cmbull Larger bowel

- in rectum or sigmoid colon - always

NORMAL FLUID LEVELS

bull Stomach- always (except supine film)

bull Small bowel- 2 or 3 levels possible

bull Large bowel- none normally

DISEASE ENTITY

PNEUMOPERITONEUM

bull Pneumoperitoneum refers to the presence of free gas within the peritoneal cavity

bull Almost always caused by perforation of hollow viscus

bull Perforated duodenal ulcer is the most frequent cause

19

CAUSES1 Perforationbull Peptic ulcer diseasebull Inflammation- Diverticulitis toxic megacolonnecrotizing

enterocolitisbull Infractionbull Pneumatosis coli- The cyst may rupturebull Maliganacybull Mechanical perforation following trauma

2 Iatrogenicbull Abdominal surgerybull Peritoneal dialysis

3 Pneumothorax- due to congenital pleuroperitoneal fistula

4Introduction per vaginum- eg douching

20

RADIOGRAPHY

bull Optimal radiographic technique is important

bull At least 2 radiographsbull a supine abdominal radiograph and bull either an erect chest image or a left lateral decubitus

image

bull The patient should remain in position for 5-10 minutes before a horizontal-beam radiograph is acquired

bull As minimal as 1ml of free gas could be detected by proper technique

21

Signs in pneumoperitoneum

Erect chest radiograph reveals free gas between the liver and both does of diaphragm

22

Left lateral decubitus film showing gas between the liver and abdominal wall

23

Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiographbull Right upper quadrant gas

Peri hepatic

Sub hepatic

Morrisonrsquos pouch

bull Fissure for ligament teres

bull Riglerrsquos (double wall sign)

bull Ligament visualization

Falciform

Umbilical inverted lsquoVrsquo sign

bull Triangular air

bull The cupola sign

bull Football or air dome

bull Scrotal air in children

24

Gas in subhepatic space

Supine abdominal radiograph shows an elliptical collection of air within the subhepatic space

25

Doges cap sign

bull Doges Cap sign refers to free air in Morrisons pouch

bull Morrisons pouch is normally a potential space between the right kidney and the liver

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 11: Plain picture in acute abdomen

11

RADIATION EXPOSURE

bull One PP abdomen exposes a patient to 07 mSv of radiation equivalent to 35 chest radiograph

bull Gonadal shielding should be used if gonads lie within 5 cm of the primary beam if clinical objective is not compromised

12

NORMAL GAS PATTERN

bull Stomach

- alwaysbull Small bowel

- 2 or 3 loops of non-distended bowel

- normal diameter = 25 cmbull Larger bowel

- in rectum or sigmoid colon - always

NORMAL FLUID LEVELS

bull Stomach- always (except supine film)

bull Small bowel- 2 or 3 levels possible

bull Large bowel- none normally

DISEASE ENTITY

PNEUMOPERITONEUM

bull Pneumoperitoneum refers to the presence of free gas within the peritoneal cavity

bull Almost always caused by perforation of hollow viscus

bull Perforated duodenal ulcer is the most frequent cause

19

CAUSES1 Perforationbull Peptic ulcer diseasebull Inflammation- Diverticulitis toxic megacolonnecrotizing

enterocolitisbull Infractionbull Pneumatosis coli- The cyst may rupturebull Maliganacybull Mechanical perforation following trauma

2 Iatrogenicbull Abdominal surgerybull Peritoneal dialysis

3 Pneumothorax- due to congenital pleuroperitoneal fistula

4Introduction per vaginum- eg douching

20

RADIOGRAPHY

bull Optimal radiographic technique is important

bull At least 2 radiographsbull a supine abdominal radiograph and bull either an erect chest image or a left lateral decubitus

image

bull The patient should remain in position for 5-10 minutes before a horizontal-beam radiograph is acquired

bull As minimal as 1ml of free gas could be detected by proper technique

21

Signs in pneumoperitoneum

Erect chest radiograph reveals free gas between the liver and both does of diaphragm

22

Left lateral decubitus film showing gas between the liver and abdominal wall

23

Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiographbull Right upper quadrant gas

Peri hepatic

Sub hepatic

Morrisonrsquos pouch

bull Fissure for ligament teres

bull Riglerrsquos (double wall sign)

bull Ligament visualization

Falciform

Umbilical inverted lsquoVrsquo sign

bull Triangular air

bull The cupola sign

bull Football or air dome

bull Scrotal air in children

24

Gas in subhepatic space

Supine abdominal radiograph shows an elliptical collection of air within the subhepatic space

25

Doges cap sign

bull Doges Cap sign refers to free air in Morrisons pouch

bull Morrisons pouch is normally a potential space between the right kidney and the liver

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 12: Plain picture in acute abdomen

12

NORMAL GAS PATTERN

bull Stomach

- alwaysbull Small bowel

- 2 or 3 loops of non-distended bowel

- normal diameter = 25 cmbull Larger bowel

- in rectum or sigmoid colon - always

NORMAL FLUID LEVELS

bull Stomach- always (except supine film)

bull Small bowel- 2 or 3 levels possible

bull Large bowel- none normally

DISEASE ENTITY

PNEUMOPERITONEUM

bull Pneumoperitoneum refers to the presence of free gas within the peritoneal cavity

bull Almost always caused by perforation of hollow viscus

bull Perforated duodenal ulcer is the most frequent cause

19

CAUSES1 Perforationbull Peptic ulcer diseasebull Inflammation- Diverticulitis toxic megacolonnecrotizing

enterocolitisbull Infractionbull Pneumatosis coli- The cyst may rupturebull Maliganacybull Mechanical perforation following trauma

2 Iatrogenicbull Abdominal surgerybull Peritoneal dialysis

3 Pneumothorax- due to congenital pleuroperitoneal fistula

4Introduction per vaginum- eg douching

20

RADIOGRAPHY

bull Optimal radiographic technique is important

bull At least 2 radiographsbull a supine abdominal radiograph and bull either an erect chest image or a left lateral decubitus

image

bull The patient should remain in position for 5-10 minutes before a horizontal-beam radiograph is acquired

bull As minimal as 1ml of free gas could be detected by proper technique

21

Signs in pneumoperitoneum

Erect chest radiograph reveals free gas between the liver and both does of diaphragm

22

Left lateral decubitus film showing gas between the liver and abdominal wall

23

Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiographbull Right upper quadrant gas

Peri hepatic

Sub hepatic

Morrisonrsquos pouch

bull Fissure for ligament teres

bull Riglerrsquos (double wall sign)

bull Ligament visualization

Falciform

Umbilical inverted lsquoVrsquo sign

bull Triangular air

bull The cupola sign

bull Football or air dome

bull Scrotal air in children

24

Gas in subhepatic space

Supine abdominal radiograph shows an elliptical collection of air within the subhepatic space

25

Doges cap sign

bull Doges Cap sign refers to free air in Morrisons pouch

bull Morrisons pouch is normally a potential space between the right kidney and the liver

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 13: Plain picture in acute abdomen

NORMAL GAS PATTERN

bull Stomach

- alwaysbull Small bowel

- 2 or 3 loops of non-distended bowel

- normal diameter = 25 cmbull Larger bowel

- in rectum or sigmoid colon - always

NORMAL FLUID LEVELS

bull Stomach- always (except supine film)

bull Small bowel- 2 or 3 levels possible

bull Large bowel- none normally

DISEASE ENTITY

PNEUMOPERITONEUM

bull Pneumoperitoneum refers to the presence of free gas within the peritoneal cavity

bull Almost always caused by perforation of hollow viscus

bull Perforated duodenal ulcer is the most frequent cause

19

CAUSES1 Perforationbull Peptic ulcer diseasebull Inflammation- Diverticulitis toxic megacolonnecrotizing

enterocolitisbull Infractionbull Pneumatosis coli- The cyst may rupturebull Maliganacybull Mechanical perforation following trauma

2 Iatrogenicbull Abdominal surgerybull Peritoneal dialysis

3 Pneumothorax- due to congenital pleuroperitoneal fistula

4Introduction per vaginum- eg douching

20

RADIOGRAPHY

bull Optimal radiographic technique is important

bull At least 2 radiographsbull a supine abdominal radiograph and bull either an erect chest image or a left lateral decubitus

image

bull The patient should remain in position for 5-10 minutes before a horizontal-beam radiograph is acquired

bull As minimal as 1ml of free gas could be detected by proper technique

21

Signs in pneumoperitoneum

Erect chest radiograph reveals free gas between the liver and both does of diaphragm

22

Left lateral decubitus film showing gas between the liver and abdominal wall

23

Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiographbull Right upper quadrant gas

Peri hepatic

Sub hepatic

Morrisonrsquos pouch

bull Fissure for ligament teres

bull Riglerrsquos (double wall sign)

bull Ligament visualization

Falciform

Umbilical inverted lsquoVrsquo sign

bull Triangular air

bull The cupola sign

bull Football or air dome

bull Scrotal air in children

24

Gas in subhepatic space

Supine abdominal radiograph shows an elliptical collection of air within the subhepatic space

25

Doges cap sign

bull Doges Cap sign refers to free air in Morrisons pouch

bull Morrisons pouch is normally a potential space between the right kidney and the liver

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 14: Plain picture in acute abdomen

NORMAL FLUID LEVELS

bull Stomach- always (except supine film)

bull Small bowel- 2 or 3 levels possible

bull Large bowel- none normally

DISEASE ENTITY

PNEUMOPERITONEUM

bull Pneumoperitoneum refers to the presence of free gas within the peritoneal cavity

bull Almost always caused by perforation of hollow viscus

bull Perforated duodenal ulcer is the most frequent cause

19

CAUSES1 Perforationbull Peptic ulcer diseasebull Inflammation- Diverticulitis toxic megacolonnecrotizing

enterocolitisbull Infractionbull Pneumatosis coli- The cyst may rupturebull Maliganacybull Mechanical perforation following trauma

2 Iatrogenicbull Abdominal surgerybull Peritoneal dialysis

3 Pneumothorax- due to congenital pleuroperitoneal fistula

4Introduction per vaginum- eg douching

20

RADIOGRAPHY

bull Optimal radiographic technique is important

bull At least 2 radiographsbull a supine abdominal radiograph and bull either an erect chest image or a left lateral decubitus

image

bull The patient should remain in position for 5-10 minutes before a horizontal-beam radiograph is acquired

bull As minimal as 1ml of free gas could be detected by proper technique

21

Signs in pneumoperitoneum

Erect chest radiograph reveals free gas between the liver and both does of diaphragm

22

Left lateral decubitus film showing gas between the liver and abdominal wall

23

Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiographbull Right upper quadrant gas

Peri hepatic

Sub hepatic

Morrisonrsquos pouch

bull Fissure for ligament teres

bull Riglerrsquos (double wall sign)

bull Ligament visualization

Falciform

Umbilical inverted lsquoVrsquo sign

bull Triangular air

bull The cupola sign

bull Football or air dome

bull Scrotal air in children

24

Gas in subhepatic space

Supine abdominal radiograph shows an elliptical collection of air within the subhepatic space

25

Doges cap sign

bull Doges Cap sign refers to free air in Morrisons pouch

bull Morrisons pouch is normally a potential space between the right kidney and the liver

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 15: Plain picture in acute abdomen

DISEASE ENTITY

PNEUMOPERITONEUM

bull Pneumoperitoneum refers to the presence of free gas within the peritoneal cavity

bull Almost always caused by perforation of hollow viscus

bull Perforated duodenal ulcer is the most frequent cause

19

CAUSES1 Perforationbull Peptic ulcer diseasebull Inflammation- Diverticulitis toxic megacolonnecrotizing

enterocolitisbull Infractionbull Pneumatosis coli- The cyst may rupturebull Maliganacybull Mechanical perforation following trauma

2 Iatrogenicbull Abdominal surgerybull Peritoneal dialysis

3 Pneumothorax- due to congenital pleuroperitoneal fistula

4Introduction per vaginum- eg douching

20

RADIOGRAPHY

bull Optimal radiographic technique is important

bull At least 2 radiographsbull a supine abdominal radiograph and bull either an erect chest image or a left lateral decubitus

image

bull The patient should remain in position for 5-10 minutes before a horizontal-beam radiograph is acquired

bull As minimal as 1ml of free gas could be detected by proper technique

21

Signs in pneumoperitoneum

Erect chest radiograph reveals free gas between the liver and both does of diaphragm

22

Left lateral decubitus film showing gas between the liver and abdominal wall

23

Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiographbull Right upper quadrant gas

Peri hepatic

Sub hepatic

Morrisonrsquos pouch

bull Fissure for ligament teres

bull Riglerrsquos (double wall sign)

bull Ligament visualization

Falciform

Umbilical inverted lsquoVrsquo sign

bull Triangular air

bull The cupola sign

bull Football or air dome

bull Scrotal air in children

24

Gas in subhepatic space

Supine abdominal radiograph shows an elliptical collection of air within the subhepatic space

25

Doges cap sign

bull Doges Cap sign refers to free air in Morrisons pouch

bull Morrisons pouch is normally a potential space between the right kidney and the liver

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 16: Plain picture in acute abdomen

bull Pneumoperitoneum refers to the presence of free gas within the peritoneal cavity

bull Almost always caused by perforation of hollow viscus

bull Perforated duodenal ulcer is the most frequent cause

19

CAUSES1 Perforationbull Peptic ulcer diseasebull Inflammation- Diverticulitis toxic megacolonnecrotizing

enterocolitisbull Infractionbull Pneumatosis coli- The cyst may rupturebull Maliganacybull Mechanical perforation following trauma

2 Iatrogenicbull Abdominal surgerybull Peritoneal dialysis

3 Pneumothorax- due to congenital pleuroperitoneal fistula

4Introduction per vaginum- eg douching

20

RADIOGRAPHY

bull Optimal radiographic technique is important

bull At least 2 radiographsbull a supine abdominal radiograph and bull either an erect chest image or a left lateral decubitus

image

bull The patient should remain in position for 5-10 minutes before a horizontal-beam radiograph is acquired

bull As minimal as 1ml of free gas could be detected by proper technique

21

Signs in pneumoperitoneum

Erect chest radiograph reveals free gas between the liver and both does of diaphragm

22

Left lateral decubitus film showing gas between the liver and abdominal wall

23

Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiographbull Right upper quadrant gas

Peri hepatic

Sub hepatic

Morrisonrsquos pouch

bull Fissure for ligament teres

bull Riglerrsquos (double wall sign)

bull Ligament visualization

Falciform

Umbilical inverted lsquoVrsquo sign

bull Triangular air

bull The cupola sign

bull Football or air dome

bull Scrotal air in children

24

Gas in subhepatic space

Supine abdominal radiograph shows an elliptical collection of air within the subhepatic space

25

Doges cap sign

bull Doges Cap sign refers to free air in Morrisons pouch

bull Morrisons pouch is normally a potential space between the right kidney and the liver

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 17: Plain picture in acute abdomen

19

CAUSES1 Perforationbull Peptic ulcer diseasebull Inflammation- Diverticulitis toxic megacolonnecrotizing

enterocolitisbull Infractionbull Pneumatosis coli- The cyst may rupturebull Maliganacybull Mechanical perforation following trauma

2 Iatrogenicbull Abdominal surgerybull Peritoneal dialysis

3 Pneumothorax- due to congenital pleuroperitoneal fistula

4Introduction per vaginum- eg douching

20

RADIOGRAPHY

bull Optimal radiographic technique is important

bull At least 2 radiographsbull a supine abdominal radiograph and bull either an erect chest image or a left lateral decubitus

image

bull The patient should remain in position for 5-10 minutes before a horizontal-beam radiograph is acquired

bull As minimal as 1ml of free gas could be detected by proper technique

21

Signs in pneumoperitoneum

Erect chest radiograph reveals free gas between the liver and both does of diaphragm

22

Left lateral decubitus film showing gas between the liver and abdominal wall

23

Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiographbull Right upper quadrant gas

Peri hepatic

Sub hepatic

Morrisonrsquos pouch

bull Fissure for ligament teres

bull Riglerrsquos (double wall sign)

bull Ligament visualization

Falciform

Umbilical inverted lsquoVrsquo sign

bull Triangular air

bull The cupola sign

bull Football or air dome

bull Scrotal air in children

24

Gas in subhepatic space

Supine abdominal radiograph shows an elliptical collection of air within the subhepatic space

25

Doges cap sign

bull Doges Cap sign refers to free air in Morrisons pouch

bull Morrisons pouch is normally a potential space between the right kidney and the liver

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 18: Plain picture in acute abdomen

20

RADIOGRAPHY

bull Optimal radiographic technique is important

bull At least 2 radiographsbull a supine abdominal radiograph and bull either an erect chest image or a left lateral decubitus

image

bull The patient should remain in position for 5-10 minutes before a horizontal-beam radiograph is acquired

bull As minimal as 1ml of free gas could be detected by proper technique

21

Signs in pneumoperitoneum

Erect chest radiograph reveals free gas between the liver and both does of diaphragm

22

Left lateral decubitus film showing gas between the liver and abdominal wall

23

Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiographbull Right upper quadrant gas

Peri hepatic

Sub hepatic

Morrisonrsquos pouch

bull Fissure for ligament teres

bull Riglerrsquos (double wall sign)

bull Ligament visualization

Falciform

Umbilical inverted lsquoVrsquo sign

bull Triangular air

bull The cupola sign

bull Football or air dome

bull Scrotal air in children

24

Gas in subhepatic space

Supine abdominal radiograph shows an elliptical collection of air within the subhepatic space

25

Doges cap sign

bull Doges Cap sign refers to free air in Morrisons pouch

bull Morrisons pouch is normally a potential space between the right kidney and the liver

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 19: Plain picture in acute abdomen

21

Signs in pneumoperitoneum

Erect chest radiograph reveals free gas between the liver and both does of diaphragm

22

Left lateral decubitus film showing gas between the liver and abdominal wall

23

Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiographbull Right upper quadrant gas

Peri hepatic

Sub hepatic

Morrisonrsquos pouch

bull Fissure for ligament teres

bull Riglerrsquos (double wall sign)

bull Ligament visualization

Falciform

Umbilical inverted lsquoVrsquo sign

bull Triangular air

bull The cupola sign

bull Football or air dome

bull Scrotal air in children

24

Gas in subhepatic space

Supine abdominal radiograph shows an elliptical collection of air within the subhepatic space

25

Doges cap sign

bull Doges Cap sign refers to free air in Morrisons pouch

bull Morrisons pouch is normally a potential space between the right kidney and the liver

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 20: Plain picture in acute abdomen

22

Left lateral decubitus film showing gas between the liver and abdominal wall

23

Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiographbull Right upper quadrant gas

Peri hepatic

Sub hepatic

Morrisonrsquos pouch

bull Fissure for ligament teres

bull Riglerrsquos (double wall sign)

bull Ligament visualization

Falciform

Umbilical inverted lsquoVrsquo sign

bull Triangular air

bull The cupola sign

bull Football or air dome

bull Scrotal air in children

24

Gas in subhepatic space

Supine abdominal radiograph shows an elliptical collection of air within the subhepatic space

25

Doges cap sign

bull Doges Cap sign refers to free air in Morrisons pouch

bull Morrisons pouch is normally a potential space between the right kidney and the liver

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 21: Plain picture in acute abdomen

23

Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiographbull Right upper quadrant gas

Peri hepatic

Sub hepatic

Morrisonrsquos pouch

bull Fissure for ligament teres

bull Riglerrsquos (double wall sign)

bull Ligament visualization

Falciform

Umbilical inverted lsquoVrsquo sign

bull Triangular air

bull The cupola sign

bull Football or air dome

bull Scrotal air in children

24

Gas in subhepatic space

Supine abdominal radiograph shows an elliptical collection of air within the subhepatic space

25

Doges cap sign

bull Doges Cap sign refers to free air in Morrisons pouch

bull Morrisons pouch is normally a potential space between the right kidney and the liver

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 22: Plain picture in acute abdomen

24

Gas in subhepatic space

Supine abdominal radiograph shows an elliptical collection of air within the subhepatic space

25

Doges cap sign

bull Doges Cap sign refers to free air in Morrisons pouch

bull Morrisons pouch is normally a potential space between the right kidney and the liver

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 23: Plain picture in acute abdomen

25

Doges cap sign

bull Doges Cap sign refers to free air in Morrisons pouch

bull Morrisons pouch is normally a potential space between the right kidney and the liver

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 24: Plain picture in acute abdomen

26

Triangular gas shadow superior to kidney and postero-inferior to 11th rib

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 25: Plain picture in acute abdomen

27

Riglerrsquos sign

Riglers sign refers to the appearance of the bowel wall on plain film when it is outlined by intraluminal and extraluminal air The extra luminal air is free peritoneal gas

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 26: Plain picture in acute abdomen

28

Falciform ligament visualization

Visualization of Falciform ligament by free gas on either side of the ligament

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 27: Plain picture in acute abdomen

29

Football sign

bull The football sign likens the massively air-filled peritoneum to an American football

bull In the supine position free air collects anterior to the abdominal viscera producing a sharp interface with the parietal peritoneum and thereby creating the football outline

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 28: Plain picture in acute abdomen

30

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 29: Plain picture in acute abdomen

31

Double Bubble Sign

Two collections of overlapping gas- one of these collections is sub diaphragmatic free gas and the other is normal gas within the fundus of the stomach

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 30: Plain picture in acute abdomen

32

The Cupola Sign

An arcuate collection of free intraperitoneal air beneath the central tendon of diaphragm The superior border is well defined (arrows)

compared with the inferior extent of the collection

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 31: Plain picture in acute abdomen

33

The Triangle Sign

The triangle sign refers to small triangles of free gas that can typically be positioned between the large bowel and the flank(black arrow)

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 32: Plain picture in acute abdomen

34

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

1 Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

2 Subphrenic abscess

3 Curvilinear supradiaphragmatic pulmonary collapse

4 Subdiaphragmatic fat

5 Cyst in pneumatosis intestinalis

6 Sub pulmonary pneumothorax

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 33: Plain picture in acute abdomen

35

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Chilaiditirsquos syndrome-intestine between liver and diaphragm

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 34: Plain picture in acute abdomen

36

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Right sided subphrenic abscess

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 35: Plain picture in acute abdomen

37

CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM

Large bulla at the base of the right lung mimics a

large pneumoperitoneum

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 36: Plain picture in acute abdomen

38

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 37: Plain picture in acute abdomen

39

GASTRIC DILATATION

Causes

1 Mechanical gastric outlet obstruction

2 Paralytic ileus

3 Gastric volvulus

4 Air swallowing

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 38: Plain picture in acute abdomen

40

GASTRIC VOLVULUSo Twisting of the stomach around its longitudinal or

mesenteric axis

o Organoaxial volvulus - Stomach rotates along its long axis and becomes obstructed with the greater curvature being displaced superiorly and the lesser curvature located more caudally in the abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 39: Plain picture in acute abdomen

41

bull Mesenteroaxial volvulus --less common occurs when the stomach rotates along its short axis with resultant displacement of the antrum above the gastroesophageal junction

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 40: Plain picture in acute abdomen

42

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Small bowel obstruction refers to any condition where the lumen of the small bowel is obstructed

bull The obstruction may be intrinsic (as with intussusception) or extrinsic (as with abdominal adhesions)

bull A small bowel diameter on plain film greater than 30mm is considered dilated

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 41: Plain picture in acute abdomen

43

Clinical Presentation of SBO

Abdominal pain

Rapid onset of nausea and vomiting

Belching

Abdominal swelling

Constipation and obstipation

Squealing bowel sounds (early obstruction)

No bowel sounds (bowel wall muscular

exhaustion)

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 42: Plain picture in acute abdomen

44

SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

bull Extrinsic causes - adhesions( most common)

- hernias

- masses

- congenital malrotations

bull Intramural causes - inflammatory strictures

- ischaemia

- primary small bowel tumours

bull Intraluminal causes - gall stones

-foreign bodies

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 43: Plain picture in acute abdomen

45

PLAIN RADIOGRAPHbull Plain film

bull Supine abdominal X-rays-

bull Erect films shows-

bull lsquolsquoString of pearls signrsquorsquo-

Signs appear after 3-5 hoursmarked after 12 hours

dilated gas filled bowel loops (more than 25 cm) with little or no gas in

colon

multiple fluid level assuming a lsquolsquostep-ladder apperancersquorsquo

- Seen in decubitus or upright film and is virtually diagnostic of SBO

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 44: Plain picture in acute abdomen

46

markedly distended loops of small bowel with effacement

of the Valvulae in the mid abdomen

Step ladder pattern produced by air fluid levels in erect film

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 45: Plain picture in acute abdomen

47

Left lateral decubitus radiograph of the abdomen demonstrates a row of small air bubbles (arrows) which represents air trapped between the Valvulae Conniventes

STRING OF PEARL SIGN

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 46: Plain picture in acute abdomen

48

The coiled spring appearance only occurs in the dilated air-filled small bowel It is most noticeable in the jejunum where

the valvulae conniventes are closely spaced

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 47: Plain picture in acute abdomen

49

GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Gasless fluid filled dilated small bowel

All the air is absorbed

Difficult to differentiate with normal bowel loops

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 48: Plain picture in acute abdomen

50

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull lleus occurs from hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract in the absence of mechanical bowel obstruction

bull Causes- 1 Post operative ileus

2 Electrolyte imbalance

3 Sepsis

4 Generalised peritonoitis

5 Blunt abdominal trauma

6 Infiltration of mesentry by tumor

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 49: Plain picture in acute abdomen

51

PARALYTIC ILEUS

bull Difficult to distinguish adynamic ileus from mechanical obstruction based on single radiograph

bull Degree of distension varies and features are not specific

bull Generalized distension- difficult to distinguish from low large bowel obstruction

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 50: Plain picture in acute abdomen

52

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 51: Plain picture in acute abdomen

53

Differentiating SBO from Paralytic Ileus

SBO Ileus

EtiologyPatient with prior

surgery weeks to years prior

Recent (hours) post-operative patient

Pain Colicky Not a prominent feature

Abdominal distension Frequently prominent May not be apparent

Bowel sounds Usually increased Usually absent

Small bowel dilatation Present Present

Large bowel dilatation Absent Present

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 52: Plain picture in acute abdomen

54

STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION

bull Occurs when two limbs of a loop are incarcerated by a band or in a hernia compromising the blood supply

bull Plain radiograph

- soft tissue mass or pseudotumour

-gas filled loops separated by thickened walls may resemble a large coffee bean

- if gangrene occurs lines of gas seen in the wall of the small bowel

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 53: Plain picture in acute abdomen

55

Dilated small bowel loops with an obstructed bowel in the right inguinal canal

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 54: Plain picture in acute abdomen

56

GALLSTONE ILEUS

bull Mechanical intestinal obstruction due to impaction of gall stones in the intestine

bull Comprises about 2 of small bowel obstruction

bull Unusual complication of chronic cholecystitis

bull Impaction of gallstone in terminal ileum after passing through a biliary-enteric fistula

bull Average age of diagnosis is 70 years

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 55: Plain picture in acute abdomen

57

bull The classic radiographic signs described by Rigler

bull Riglerrsquos traid-

1 Incomplete or complete SBO

2 Gas within gall bladderbile duct

3 Ectopic location of gall stone

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 56: Plain picture in acute abdomen

58

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull It is the invagination of a segment of bowel ( intussusceptum) into the contiguous segment ( intussuscipiens)

bull Commonly seen in children below 2 years

bull Ileocolic segment involved in 90 cases

bull Colocolic and ileoileal intussusception may occur

bull Common in the ileum due to inflammation of the lymphoid tissue in Peyerrsquos patches

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 57: Plain picture in acute abdomen

59

INTUSSUSCEPTION

bull In adults usually secondary to tumor of the bowel

bull Results in small bowel obstruction

bull Crescent sign-Soft tissue mass sometimes surrounded by a crescent of gas most commonly in Rthypochondrium

bull Target sign- two concentric circles of fat density lying to the rt of spine

bull Target sign twice as common as crescent sign

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 58: Plain picture in acute abdomen

60

There is a prominent crescent sign in the left upper quadrant with a subtle target sign in right upper quadrant

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 59: Plain picture in acute abdomen

61

Intussusceptions in the left upper quadrant on this plain film of an infant with pain vomiting

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 60: Plain picture in acute abdomen

62

SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTIONbull Thrombosis or embolism of superior mesentric artery

bull FEATURES

1 Gas filled dilated loops with multiple fluid levels

2 Thickened bowel loops owing to submucosal edema or hemorrhage

3 Linear gas in wall streaks suggest gangrene

4 Free gas if perforation

5 Intra luminal gas in mesentric veins or portal

vein in advanced cases

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 61: Plain picture in acute abdomen

63

Intramural gas with positive rigler sign (due to intraperitoneal gas) suggests possibilty of intestinal infarction

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 62: Plain picture in acute abdomen

64

bull LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 63: Plain picture in acute abdomen

65

Large Bowel Obstruction

bull Dilated colon to point of obstruction

bull Little or no air in rectumsigmoid

bull Little or no gas in small bowel if ileocecal valve remains competent

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 64: Plain picture in acute abdomen

66

Etiology

bull Mechanical obstruction

1 Carcinoma of colon (60)

2 Diverticulitis (second most common)

3 Volvulus

4 Extrinsic compression

bull Paralytic ileus AKA acute colonic psudo-obstruction was first described by Ogilvie

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 65: Plain picture in acute abdomen

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Abull Large bowel distension

only-bull Owing to competent

ileocaecal valvebull Caecum at risk of

perforation

67

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 66: Plain picture in acute abdomen

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE 1 Bbull Competent ileocaecal

valve leading to caecal distension but also as a mechanical obstruction to small bowel

bull Caecum at risk of perforation

68

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 67: Plain picture in acute abdomen

LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types

bull TYPE IIbull Large and small

bowel distensionbull Incompetent valve

69

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 68: Plain picture in acute abdomen

70

Large bowel Volvulusbull Sigmoid colon and caecum - most common

sites

bull If twist greater than 360 degrees unlikely to resolve spontaneously

bull The risk of vascular compromise more important than mechanical effects

bull Compound volvulus involving interwining of two loops of bowel is rare such as ileosigmoid knot

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 69: Plain picture in acute abdomen

71

CAECAL VOLVULUS

bull Torsion of the bowel around its own mesentery and often results in a closed-loop obstruction

bull Occurs due to development failure of peritoneal fixation

bull Accounts for 2-3 case of intestinal obstruction and 11 cases of colonic volvulus

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 70: Plain picture in acute abdomen

The cecum twists in the axial plane rotating clockwise or counterclockwise around its long axisAt times caecum twists and inverts and occupy left upper quadrant

72

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 71: Plain picture in acute abdomen

73

PLAIN RADIOGRAPH

bull Plain film diagnostic in about 75

bull Dilated air filled caecum in an ectopic location usually with the caecal apex in left upper quadrant

bull Kidney or coffee bean appearence due to medially placed ileo caecal valve producing a soft tissue indentation

bull Little gas in distal colon and usually collapsed

bull Refluxed gas may erroneously suggest a small bowel obstruction

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 72: Plain picture in acute abdomen

74

Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone or two haustral markings can be usually seenunlike sigmoid volvulus

Identification of attached gas filled appendix confirms diagnosis

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 73: Plain picture in acute abdomen

75

SIGMOID VOLVULUS

bull Accounts for 60-70 of colonic volvulus

bull Classically occur in old age psychiatrically disturbed mentally retarded or institutionalised people

bull Twists around mesenteric axis rarely with axial torsion

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 74: Plain picture in acute abdomen

SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findingsbull Dilated loop of sigmoid colon that has a inverted U

configuration with absent haustral margin is an important diagnostic point

bull Left flank overlap sign

bull Liver overlap sign

bull Apex under left hemidiaphram

bull Apex above 10th thoracic vertebra

bull Inferior convergence on left76

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 75: Plain picture in acute abdomen

77

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 76: Plain picture in acute abdomen

78

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 77: Plain picture in acute abdomen

79

COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION

bull Also known as OGILVIE syndrome

bull Due to autonomic imbalance

bull Acute abd distension within10 days of precipitating pathology

bull Contrast enema CT required to exclude mechanical obstruction

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 78: Plain picture in acute abdomen

80

DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION

Small bowel Large bowel

Valvulae Conniventes

Present in jejunum

Absent

Number of loops Many Few

Distribution of loops

Central Peripheral

Haustra Absent Present

Diameter 3-5 cm gt5cm

Radius of curvature

small large

Solid faeces Absent Present

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 79: Plain picture in acute abdomen

81

Acute colitis

bull An assessment of the extent of colitis state of mucosadepth of ulcerationpresence or absence of toxic megacolon and perforation can be made

bull The extent of faecal residue related to the extent of colitis

bull lsquoEmpty abdomenrsquo-no faecal residue or gas so active total colitis

bull Intra luminal gas tend to accumulate as colitis progress

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 80: Plain picture in acute abdomen

82

Acute ulcerative colitis- descending colon with irregular outline absent haustrations absent faecal residue

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 81: Plain picture in acute abdomen

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Fulminating form of colitis with trans mural inflammation

bull Perforation and peritonitis common

bull Radiologically-dilatation and nodular mucosa

bull Dilatation gt55mm- significant and sufficient

bull Changes most frequent in transverse colon

bull Gaseous distension of small bowel- severe colitis ndash poor prognosis

83

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 82: Plain picture in acute abdomen

TOXIC MEGACOLON

bull Plain abdominal radiograph shows distention of the transverse colon associated with mucosal edema

bull The maximum transverse diameter of the transverse colon is 6 cm

84

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 83: Plain picture in acute abdomen

85

bull ISCHAEMIC COLITISo Disorder caused by vascular insufficiency and bleeding

into the wall of the colon

o Preferentially involves the splenic flexure and the proximal descending colon

o Radiographically difficult to identify unless some intra luminal gas present

o Submucosal thickening with cresentic margins (thumb-printing)

o Involved area acts as a functional obstruction so proximal parts frequently distended

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 84: Plain picture in acute abdomen

86

Ischemic colitis

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 85: Plain picture in acute abdomen

87

PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS

bull Common cause of antibiotic associated diarrohea

bull Clostridium difficile is usually involved

bull 13 rd cases shows positive findings on plain films

bull Colonic dilatation (32 )

bull Thumb printing thickened haustra abnormal mucosa (18 )

bull Untreated cases develops toxic megacolon and subsequent perforation

bull Associated small bowel dilation(20 ) ascites (7 ) may be seen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 86: Plain picture in acute abdomen

88

extensive haustral thickening (arrows) in a patient with pseudomembranous colitis

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 87: Plain picture in acute abdomen

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 88: Plain picture in acute abdomen

90

ACUTE APPENDICITIS

o Commonest acute surgical condition in the developing country

o Radiological signs-

Appendix calculus(05-06)cm Right lower quadrant mass indenting the caecum Dilated caecum Sentinel loop Widening blurring extraperitoneal fat line Scoliosis concave to the right Right lower quadrant haze Gas in the appendix

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 89: Plain picture in acute abdomen

91

Appendicoliths are found in 10 of cases Its presence with pain in rt lower abdomen is highly suggestive of diagnosis

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 90: Plain picture in acute abdomen

ACUTE CHOLECYSTITISbull Gall stones- in 20 only

bull Porcelein GB

bull Right hypochondrial mass due to enlarged gall bladder

bull Duodenal ileus

bull Ileus of hepatic flexure of colon

bull Gas within biliary system

92

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 91: Plain picture in acute abdomen

93

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 92: Plain picture in acute abdomen

94

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Acute pancreatitis refers to acute inflammation of the pancreas

bull Causesbull Gallstones (most common)bull Alcohol abuse usually chronicbull Trauma more often penetratingbull Drug-inducedbull Anatomic abnormalitybull ERCP-inducedbull Infectious especially post-viral in childrenbull Vasculitisbull Idiopathic

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 93: Plain picture in acute abdomen

95

ACUTE PANCREATITISbull Pathological changes are edema

hemorrhegelnfarctionfat necrosis followed by acute suppuration

bull Inflammatory processes tend into gastro colic ligament or paraduodenal areas- follow route of mesentry or extend out of peritoneum into perirenal space

bull Lot of radiological signs described but many are of little value in diagnosing individual cases

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 94: Plain picture in acute abdomen

96

Plain film changes-

Chest x-ray-o Left sided pleural effusiono Splinting of left hemidiaphragmo Basal atelactasis

Abdominal film-o Duodenal ileuso Gasless abdomeno ldquocolon cut offrdquo signo Renal ldquohalordquo signo Absent left psoas shadowo Indistinct mottled shadowingo Sentinel loopo Intrapancreatic gas-abscess enteric fistula

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 95: Plain picture in acute abdomen

97

The abrupt termination of gas within the proximal colon at the level of the radiographic splenic flexure usually with decompression of the distal colon

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 96: Plain picture in acute abdomen

98

A sentinel loop is a focal area of adynamic ileus close to an intra-abdominal inflammatory process The sentinel loop sign may aid in

localizing the source of inflammation

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 97: Plain picture in acute abdomen

99

bull Later stages- pancreatic pseudocyst visible on plain film as large soft tissue mass

bull Pleural effusions mainly left sided

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 98: Plain picture in acute abdomen

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESSbull Abscesses are collections

of pus that may displace adjacent structures

following their involvement by inflammatory process

bull Usually of soft tissue density on plain filmsbut frequently contain gas

bull Recognition of small gas bubbles outside bowel lumenunchanged in position on sequential films strongly so abscess 100

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 99: Plain picture in acute abdomen

101

SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS

bull Nearly always occurs as a result of surgery

bull Chest X-ray - raised hemidiaphragm

- basal consolidation

- pleural effusion

Abdominal radiographs

- gasfluid level

- Irregular gas pocket

- Scoliosis towards the lesion

- localised paralytic ileus

Fluoroscopy- decrease diaphragmatic movement

- locates small gas-fluid level irregular gas pockets

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 100: Plain picture in acute abdomen

INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS

Subhepatic abscess

bull A gasfluid level is seen beneath the right hemidiaphragm Note also the pleural effusion The abscess developed in a 45-year-old woman following a cholecystectomy

102

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 101: Plain picture in acute abdomen

103

PARACOLIC ABSCESS

Lies close to the site of causative lesion

Diverticulosis and appendicitis are the commonest causative lesions

Soft tissue mass often containing gas bubbles and displacing colon ndash mc radiographic presentation

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 102: Plain picture in acute abdomen

104

INTRAMURAL GAS

bull Gas within walls of hollow viscus

bull Classification

Cystic pneumatosis

Interstitial emphysema

Gas-forming infections

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 103: Plain picture in acute abdomen

105

Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis)

bull Cyst like collections of gas in the walls of the hollow viscera

bull Left half of colon most frequently involved- pneumatosis coli

bull Plain abdominal radiographs-

Gas containing cyst

Pneumoperitoneum

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 104: Plain picture in acute abdomen

106

INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA

bull Linear gas in single or double streaks is found in the bowel wall

bull Common site- stomach amp colonbull Associated with toxic megacolon

Emphysematous gastritis- - contracted stomach - mottled lucency in the left upper abdomen

Emphysematous cholecystitis -occurs in absence of gallstones

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 105: Plain picture in acute abdomen

107

Necrotizing enterocolitis- in premature babies

- generalised bowel distension

- bowel wall thickening

- pneumatosis

- associated with gas in the portal vein

Emphysematous cystitis-

- linear gas streaks and gas cysts within

the wall of the urinary bladder amp within

the lumen of the bladder

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 106: Plain picture in acute abdomen

108

Linear or curvilinear lucencies are seen in the walls of the bowel

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 107: Plain picture in acute abdomen

109Emphysematous gastritis Emphysematous cysytitis

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 108: Plain picture in acute abdomen

110

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 109: Plain picture in acute abdomen

111

OTHER CONDITIONS

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 110: Plain picture in acute abdomen

112

RENAL COLIC

bull A high proportion of patients with acute ureteric obstruction due to calculus present with an acute abdomen

bull About 90 of renal stones are radio-opaque Uric acid stones especially may be missed

bull Plain abdominal radiograph-

Calculi (90) Meteorism Paralytic ileus Urinoma- soft tissue mass with loss of renal and psoas outines

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 111: Plain picture in acute abdomen

113

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 112: Plain picture in acute abdomen

114

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

bull Recognised by gas bubbles within the kidney or linear gas beneath the renal capsule

bull Occurs in uncontrolled Diabetes or Obstructive uropathy

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 113: Plain picture in acute abdomen

115

ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS

bull Torsion of an ovarian cyst- pelvic mass

bull Dermoid cyst- contains calcification teeth or fat

bull Ruptured ectopic pregnancy-

- pelvic mass

- paralytic ileus

- free intrapeitoneal fluid

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 114: Plain picture in acute abdomen

116

Pop corn like cauliflower ndash uterine leiomyoma

Ovarian teratoma

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 115: Plain picture in acute abdomen

117

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

bull Presents as acute abdomen with shock and simulated renal colic

bull Curvilinear calcification seen on AP radiograph but is best detected on a lateral view

bull Calcified walls of aorta can allow measurement of lumen

bull AAA if over 3 cm AP diameter

bull Ultrasound and CT are much more sensitive

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 116: Plain picture in acute abdomen

118

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 117: Plain picture in acute abdomen

119

ASCITESbull Only large amount of Ascites can be recognized on

abdominal radiograph

bull Signs

1Obliteration of the inferior edge of the liver

2Widening of the distance between the flank stripe and ascending colon Normal is 2-3 mm

3 Fluid accumulation in the pelvis

4 centrally located bowel loops with bulging flanks

5 Ground glass appearnace_ requires large amount of fluid

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 118: Plain picture in acute abdomen

120

Supine view of the abdomen shows central displacement of the loops of bowela uniform grayness to the abdomen loss of any definition of the edge of the spleen or liver and displacement of the bowel loops out of the pelvis all suggestive of ascites

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 119: Plain picture in acute abdomen

121

Hydatid cyst in the Liver

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 120: Plain picture in acute abdomen

FOREIGN BODY

122

IRON TABLETS BUTTON BATTERIES

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 121: Plain picture in acute abdomen

123

bull PAEDIATRICS

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 122: Plain picture in acute abdomen

124

DUODENAL ATRESIA JEJUNAL ATRESIA

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 123: Plain picture in acute abdomen

125

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 124: Plain picture in acute abdomen

126

Conclusion

bull Following the history and clinical examination plain film radiographs have been one of the first and most useful methods of further investigation

bull Plain picture continues to be initial imaging modility in acute abdomen particularly in perforation and intestinal obstruction

bull In cases where definite diagnosis cannot be reached further evaluation with USG and CT scan is required

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127
Page 125: Plain picture in acute abdomen

127

  • Plain picture in acute abdomen Moderator- Dr (Prof) R K Go
  • INTRODUCTION
  • Plain Radiography
  • Basic radiographs
  • Slide 5
  • Chest Conditions that mimic acute abdomen
  • Slide 7
  • TECHNIQUE standard projection
  • Supplemental projections
  • ADDITIONAL PROJECTIONS
  • RADIATION EXPOSURE
  • Slide 12
  • NORMAL GAS PATTERN
  • Slide 14
  • NORMAL FLUID LEVELS
  • Slide 16
  • DISEASE ENTITY
  • Slide 18
  • CAUSES
  • RADIOGRAPHY
  • Signs in pneumoperitoneum
  • Slide 22
  • Signs of pneumoperitoneum of supine radiograph
  • Gas in subhepatic space
  • Doges cap sign
  • Slide 26
  • Riglerrsquos sign
  • Falciform ligament visualization
  • Football sign
  • Slide 30
  • Double Bubble Sign
  • The Cupola Sign
  • The Triangle Sign
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (2)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (3)
  • CONDITIONS SIMULATING PNEUMOPERITONEUM (4)
  • Slide 38
  • GASTRIC DILATATION
  • GASTRIC VOLVULUS
  • Slide 41
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • Clinical Presentation of SBO
  • SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION (2)
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH
  • Slide 46
  • Slide 47
  • Slide 48
  • GASLESS SMALL BOWEL OBSTRUCTION
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS
  • PARALYTIC ILEUS (2)
  • Slide 52
  • Slide 53
  • STRANGULATING OBSTRUCTION
  • Slide 55
  • GALLSTONE ILEUS
  • Slide 57
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION
  • INTUSSUSCEPTION (2)
  • Slide 60
  • Slide 61
  • SMALL INTESTINAL INFARCTION
  • Slide 63
  • Slide 64
  • Large Bowel Obstruction
  • Etiology
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (2)
  • LARGE BOWEL OBSTRUCTION-types (3)
  • Large bowel Volvulus
  • CAECAL VOLVULUS
  • Slide 72
  • PLAIN RADIOGRAPH (2)
  • Even though there is considerable distension of the caecumone
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS
  • SIGMOID VOLVULUS-findings
  • Slide 77
  • Slide 78
  • COLONIC PSEUDO OBSTRUCTION
  • DISTINCTION BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BOWEL
  • Acute colitis
  • Slide 82
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON
  • TOXIC MEGACOLON (2)
  • Slide 85
  • Slide 86
  • PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS
  • Slide 88
  • Slide 89
  • ACUTE APPENDICITIS
  • Slide 91
  • ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
  • Slide 93
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS
  • ACUTE PANCREATITIS (2)
  • Plain film changes-
  • Slide 97
  • Slide 98
  • Slide 99
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS
  • SUBPHRENIC ABSCESS
  • INTRA-ABDOMINAL ABSCESS (2)
  • PARACOLIC ABSCESS
  • INTRAMURAL GAS
  • Cystic pneumatosis (Pneumatosis cystoides intestina
  • INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
  • Slide 107
  • Slide 108
  • Slide 109
  • Slide 110
  • Slide 111
  • RENAL COLIC
  • Slide 113
  • Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
  • ACUTE GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS
  • Slide 116
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Slide 118
  • ASCITES
  • Slide 120
  • Slide 121
  • FOREIGN BODY
  • Slide 123
  • Slide 124
  • Slide 125
  • Conclusion
  • Slide 127