Plain abdominal X-ray (without preparation) and rib cage X-ray
Chest and Abdomen X-Ray (Ribs, Plain Abdominal X-Ray) in Casablanca
Two simple X-rays are grouped here. The plain abdominal X-ray (called ASP in French, abdomen without preparation) shows the abdomen without contrast agent: air in the intestines, some stones, swallowed objects. The rib cage X-ray examines the ribs after an injury. These images are quick and painless. They do not replace ultrasound or a CT scan when the organs themselves need to be seen, such as the liver, the gallbladder or the appendix.
Duration, report and equipment
Duration
The exam usually takes less than 10 minutes.
Report turnaround
Report within 24 hours. In an emergency, during opening hours, the report is handed over immediately.
Equipment
Carestream
Reading aid
The center uses Gleamer, artificial intelligence software that helps the radiologist read X-rays. Interpretation and the report are still done by the radiologist.
When is this exam needed?
- Suspected bowel obstruction.
- Swallowed object, especially by a child.
- Monitoring of kidney stones visible on X-rays.
- Rib pain after a fall.
- Follow-up of a swallowed object, to check that it is moving through the intestine.
How the exam is done
On arrival, the radiographer checks the request (abdomen or ribs) and the painful side. Tell us about a swallowed object, a possible pregnancy or recent abdominal surgery.
You remove clothing and metal objects from the area, including a belly button piercing if possible. The plain abdominal X-ray is taken lying on your back, sometimes also standing. For the ribs, the image is centered on the painful side and you hold your breath for a few seconds. Each image takes only an instant. The radiographer makes sure the images are sharp, then you get dressed and leave.
Preparation
- If an object was swallowed, specify what it was and at what time.
- Wear clothes without metal buttons or buckles around the abdomen.
- For the ribs, locate the painful area so you can show it to the radiographer.
Fasting
No fasting is required.
Contrast injection
No contrast agent is used, hence the French name “abdomen sans préparation” (abdomen without preparation).
Contraindications and precautions
- Current or possible pregnancy: you must tell us, as the abdomen is exposed.
- Severe abdominal pain with fever or vomiting: seek emergency care.
- Difficulty breathing or coughing up blood after a blow to the chest: see a doctor without delay.
- Several magnets swallowed by a child: urgent medical advice is needed, even without symptoms.
Documents to bring
- Doctor's prescription
- Previous X-rays or ultrasounds
- Insurance or mutual insurance fund card
Price and insurance coverage
The center accepts coverage from insurance companies and the main mutual insurance funds. You submit the coverage request to your insurer or fund yourself. For AtlantaSanad and Sanlam, the center takes care of it.
No prices are shown on this site: Kenza gives you the exact price on WhatsApp, along with the coverage procedure for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
Is a plain abdominal X-ray enough for abdominal pain?
Often not. For acute pain, ultrasound or a CT scan provides more information; the plain abdominal X-ray still has a few specific uses, chosen by the doctor.
Is a rib fracture always visible?
No, a fine fracture or a cartilage fracture can be missed on the X-ray. Treatment is often based on the pain and the doctor's examination.
Why an image while standing?
When you stand, air and fluids are distributed differently in the intestine, which can reveal signs of obstruction that are less visible lying down.
My child swallowed an object: what should I do?
See a doctor, who decides whether an X-ray is needed. A swallowed button battery, breathing difficulty or vomiting require going to the emergency department.
Can a kidney stone be seen on a plain abdominal X-ray?
Only if it contains enough calcium to stop X-rays. Some stones remain invisible; ultrasound or a CT scan then looks for them.
Can the X-ray be done as an emergency?
During opening hours, an X-ray of the abdomen or ribs requested as an emergency by your doctor can be done at the center.