Book an abdominal X-ray
near you
An abdominal X-ray takes a picture of your belly to look at the bowel gas pattern, constipation and some kidney stones. It is less detailed than ultrasound or CT.
Also called: AXR, Stomach X-ray, KUB X-ray, Bowel X-ray
Find a clinic for your abdominal X-ray
100 clinics offer bulk billing for X-ray — eligibility varies
Where to get an abdominal X-ray
101 clinics across Melbourne and Victoria on Radly offer X-ray.
Clinics for an abdominal X-ray on Radly
See all 101 →
What is an abdominal X-ray?
An abdominal X-ray shows gas in the bowel, stool, bones of the lower spine and pelvis, and any dense objects such as some kidney stones or swallowed items. A KUB X-ray focuses on the kidneys, ureters and bladder.
You usually lie on your back on the X-ray table while a single image is taken. Sometimes a second image is taken standing or lying on your side.
Abdominal X-rays don't show organs like the liver, gallbladder or appendix in detail. For most belly pain, your doctor may prefer an ultrasound or CT scan, which give much more information.
Why your doctor might request an abdominal X-ray
- Severe constipation, especially in children or older adults
- Suspected bowel blockage
- Checking for some types of kidney stones
- Locating a swallowed object
- Checking the position of a tube or device
Abdominal X-ray: preparation, referral & Medicare
Preparing for your abdominal X-ray
- No fasting is usually needed unless your clinic tells you otherwise.
- You will change into a gown; remove belts and clothing with metal.
- Tell the radiographer if you are or might be pregnant. This is very important for abdominal X-rays.
- Bring your referral and Medicare card.
How long it takes: About 10–15 minutes
Referral, Medicare & bulk billing
An abdominal X-ray needs a referral from a GP or specialist for a Medicare rebate. Many clinics bulk bill X-rays for eligible patients, but billing varies, so the clinic confirms when you book. Severe abdominal pain should be assessed urgently by a doctor or emergency department.
How it works
Get your referral
Most scans need a referral from your GP, specialist, or other health practitioner.
Compare clinics
Find clinics near you for your abdominal X-ray and compare bulk billing, reviews, and location.
Send your request
Share your preferred timing and send the clinic your details and referral when available.
Clinic confirms
The clinic reviews your request and confirms your appointment and any preparation needed.
If the clinic hasn’t acknowledged your request after 24 hours, Radly will follow up. We check in by SMS during daytime hours where SMS is available and you haven’t opted out. Reply N if you haven’t been contacted and our team will follow up. Acknowledgment does not mean an appointment is booked.
Abdominal X-ray FAQs
Will an abdominal X-ray show appendicitis?
Usually not. Appendicitis is normally assessed with ultrasound or CT, along with a doctor's examination.
Can an X-ray show kidney stones?
Many kidney stones show on a KUB X-ray, but some don't. CT is more accurate for finding stones.
Do I need to fast for an abdominal X-ray?
Generally no. The clinic will let you know if your referral needs any preparation.
How do I book an abdominal X-ray online?
Choose a clinic on Radly, select X-Ray as your scan, add your preferred timing and attach your referral, then send your booking request. The clinic contacts you to confirm the appointment and any preparation.
How soon can I get an abdominal X-ray?
Appointments for X-ray are walk-in or same day at most clinics, depending on the clinic and the exam. You can send a request on Radly at any time, and the clinic replies with its next available time.
Related scans
Helpful guides
Ready to book your abdominal X-ray?
Compare clinics near you and send a booking request in minutes.
Find a clinic