Plain films of the abdomen in term pregnancy

Plain films of the abdomen taken during pregnancy at term from 1971 to 1981 at the Radiology Service of the Obstetric and Gynecological Clinic of the University of Padua are summarized and analysed. The average frequency of X-ray investigation is 0.5%, ranging from 0.06% (in 1980) to 2.11% (in 1977), compared to Carmichael's data which range from 11 to 30%. Indications have remained fairly constant over the years, in view of the very low incidence of this examination. The most significant finding is the greater incidence of fetal malformation in recent years, and is explained by a more efficacious program of pregnancy screening. X-ray examination may be still employed in some cases to obtain superior information regarding the best definition of gestational age, some fetal malformation, and in rare cases, hemolytic disease.