title: Reappraisal of the left lateral decubitus X-ray in splenic rupture.
abstract: The lateral decubitus view of the barium-filled stomach has been reassessed in a series of 42 patients with possible splenic rupture and compared with a group of 17 patients with splenomegaly. Displacement of the gastric fundus of more than 4 cm from the inner rib margin is highly suggestive of splenic rupture. Where doubt exists, the test should be repeated within a short while. Peritoneal lavage and a full blood count investigation both add to the diagnostic accuracy.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008722:Methods; D008875:Middle Aged; D011187:Posture; D011859:Radiography; D013154:Spleen / Q000293:injuries; D013161:Splenic Rupture / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*