Radiologic evaluation of acute abdominal pain arising from the alimentary tract

A review of the pertinent radiologic findings of common alimentary tract disorders presenting with acute abdominal pain is presented. When the conventional plain abdominal films are not diagnostic, the use of special views and appropriate contract and ultrasound examinations on a urgent basis is encouraged. A more expenditious and accurate diagnosis of the cause of abdominal pain will inevitably reduce the morbidity and mortality of such entities as bowel perforation, infarction, and pancreatitis.