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Abdomen Decubitus Views

Dr Motsuki

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Types

  • Lateral (Right and Left) decubitus view
  • Dorsal decubitus view

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Lateral Decubitus View

  • It is done instead of an erect abdomen if the patient unstable to stand or sit.
  • To assess pneumoperitoneum or air-fluid levels.

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Lateral decubitus View

  • Positioning
    • Patient is lying in a lateral recumbent position(either R or L).
    • Elbows and arms flexed and hands resting near the head.
    • The detector can be placed anteriorly or posteriorly.
    • The upper border of the cassette is placed 5 cm above the diaphragm.
    • Knee partially flexed one on top of another, to stabilise the patient.
    • In position for 10-15 min for fluid to settle and air to rise.
    • x-ray is often performed on expiration

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Left Lateral Decubitus

Compared to other views it is the best method to assess pneumoperitoneum.

Roh et al, The American Journal of Surgery 1983

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Dorsal decubitus view

  • Done if the patient can’t sit or be rolled.
  • Patient remains supine.

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Dorsal decubitus view

  • Position
    • The patient is placed supine on the x-ray table.
    • Both hands are raised over the head.
    • The abdomen is raised by placing a sponge under the abdomen.
    • Cassette placed vertically against the patient’s side.
    • x-ray is taken in full inspiration.

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