An Introduction To Essential Abdominal Soft Tissue Radiology

Course overview

Identify normal abdominal soft tissue structures on lumbar and abdominal radiographs, including liver, kidney, psoas shadows, and bowel gas patterns. Describe the indications and patient preparation for upper GI barium swallow and barium enema contrast studies. Explain the diagnostic advantages of double contrast barium enema and abdominal CT in evaluating bowel and solid organ pathology. Describe the phases and procedural steps of an intravenous pyelogram in assessing kidney structure and function. Recognize radiographic and ultrasound findings of hepatomegaly and identify indications for retrograde pyelogram and abdominal ultrasound. Differentiate radiographic features of splenomegaly from hepatomegaly and identify common causes of combined hepatosplenomegaly. Identify causes of unilateral kidney enlargement and recognize congenital renal anomalies such as horseshoe, pelvic, and crossed ectopic kidneys. Evaluate abnormal bowel gas patterns and recognize emergent findings such as obstruction, portal venous air, and toxic megacolon.