This abdominal x-ray shows a stomach filled with fluid and a swollen (distended) small bowel, caused by a blockage (obstruction) in the intestines. A solution containing a dye (barium) that is visible on x-rays was swallowed by the patient (upper GI series).
Update Date: 11/5/2012
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
