Chapter 1: Abdomen

Introduction

The abdomen consists of four regions:

• Anterior abdominal wall

• Abdominal cavity (with viscera)

• Inguinal canal

• Posterior abdominal wall

Imaging of the anterior abdominal wall seldom shows significant pathology though certain conditions may be seen on ultrasound, such as a Spigelian hernia.

The abdominal cavity, with all its various viscera, is a rich source of pathological images.

The posterior abdominal wall contains the major vessels. The kidneys and ureters have been included as abdominal viscera, though they are really constituents of the posterior abdominal wall.

Normal Images

Anterior Wall

Notes

Large lump present in inguinoscrotal region.

Report

Large inguinal hernia.

Treatment

Reduction and hernioplasty.

GIT Tumors

Notes

Epigastric pain, indigestion, nausea, and cachexia.

Report

Focal mass lesion on greater curvature of stomach (gastric carcinoma).

Treatment

Resection if not too late.

Notes

Cachexia, constipation, diarrhea, and peri-rectal bleeding.

Report

Gastrografin enema reveals stenotic lesion in proximal transverse colon similar to an 'apple core' (colonic carcinoma).

Treatment

Resection and anastomosis.

GIT Obstruction

Notes

History of cause (hernia, adhesions) with vomiting, ...