This is a plain x-ray of the abdomen. It is a simple, quick and painless examination, which may be carried out to highlight:

1. Right-sided (proximal) constipation in the presence of left-sided (distal) inflammatory disease.

2. Swelling (dilatation) of the bowel due to stricture formation or severe inflammation (as in fulminant colitis or toxic megacolon).

3. Complications such as the presence of an abscess or perforation.

The examination does not require any special preparation and can usually be performed on request from clinic.

The results can be reviewed by your doctor and appropriate treatment given, or further investigation continued.