Kidney, Ureter and Bladder X-ray

A kidney, ureter, bladder (KUB) X-ray is a diagnostic procedure used to examine the size, shape and position of structures within the abdominal area -the urinary system as well as parts of the gastrointestinal system. A KUB uses X-rays to create images of the internal structures on film or digital media. It is the first diagnostic procedure ordered for abdominal pain, which may be due to a mass, obstruction, perforation, foreign object in the stomach, urinary disorders, tumour, or stones in the gallbladder or kidney. It may also be used to verify the correct position of a feeding tube or stents.

The procedure may be performed lying down or standing up. The part of your abdomen to be viewed is placed in line with a plate that contains the film or digital media. X-rays from the machine pass through your body and are recorded on the media in the plate. It is important to remain completely still during this part of the procedure to prevent distortion of the images. Your position may be changed, and further X-rays obtained.

As with any X-ray procedure, a KUB should be avoided during pregnancy. You should notify your doctor of your previous exposures to X-rays.