X-rays of the kidneys, ureters and bladder, known as KUB x-rays, are taken for many reasons, including finding the cause of abdominal pain or vomiting. In children they often reveal constipation, which can contribute to urinary incontinence or help locate possible kidney stones.
Physicians can use KUB x-rays to confirm an intestinal blockage or foreign objects in the stomach. This test has become less common in recent years because pediatric urologists can often use physical examinations and other noninvasive tests to diagnose patients.
Children who have this procedure do not need to bring anything to the appointment. The procedure may take several minutes. Your child removes any jewelry and wears a hospital gown. To minimize radiation exposure, a lead apron covers parts of the body that are not x-rayed.
Since different views may be needed, your child may be moved in different positions to get the necessary images. There should be no pain with this procedure unless your child has had a recent surgery or procedure that makes positioning his/her body difficult. After the test, a radiologist reviews the x-rays. Additional tests may be necessary to make a complete diagnosis.
KUB tests are performed as an in-patient or outpatient procedure. Generally, there are no special instructions after the test, and your child can resume normal activities.
Riley at IU Health offers a broad range of supportive services to make life better for families who choose us for their children's care.
This National Institutes of Health website offers information and links related to health conditions and diagnostic procedures such as KUB x-rays.
Visit this website to learn more about how kidney stones are diagnosed and treated.
This website is supported by the American Academy of Pediatrics and provides health information about children and teens.
In addition to our primary hospital location at the Academic Health Center in Indianapolis, IN, we have convenient locations to better serve our communities throughout the state.
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