Radiology of abdominal pain

Radiology plays an integral role in the evaluation of patients with significant abdominal pain. The cross-sectional modalities (computed tomography, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging) are widely used, but there is sometimes confusion about how to use each test appropriately. We review how each test is done, consider the strengths and weaknesses of each modality, and discuss how to use them in an intelligent, cost-effective manner.