What is the purpose of an image obtained with the patient in a lateral decubitus or erect position?
Images obtained with the patient in an erect position (chest or abdominal image) or images obtained with the patient in a lateral decubitus position are used to show air-fluid levels in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract or free intraperitoneal gas. These views are important in patients with suspected perforation or bowel obstruction. An erect view is used in patients who can stand; lateral decubitus views are performed in patients who are unable to stand.
