Abdominal X-ray - Abnormal soft tissues and bones
Abdominal and pelvic masses

Key points

  • Pelvic masses can displace bowel upwards

Occasionally masses of the pelvis are visible on an abdominal X-ray. If large, masses of the pelvis may extend into the abdomen and displace bowel.

Investigation with ultrasound and/or CT is required for assessment of a suspected abdominal mass.

Pelvic mass - large

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Pelvic mass - large

  • A very large soft tissue density mass extends upwards from the pelvis
  • Bowel is displaces superiorly in the abdomen

Pelvic mass - small

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Pelvic mass - small

  • A right pelvic wall mass is easily missed
  • If you see a mass on an abdominal X-ray - re-examine the patient before planning further imaging

Page author: Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust UK (Read bio)

Last reviewed: October 2019