Scout film
Formal Definition
A low-dose anteroposterior plain radiograph of the abdomen (also called a KUB — kidneys, ureters, bladder) obtained as a preliminary image, or the initial topographic projection taken at the start of a CT scan to plan slice acquisition.
How It's Used on the Ward
"Get a scout" or "scout shows free air" — a quick flat plate of the abdomen, often the first imaging step before CT.
Example
""Acute abdomen: scout film showed air under the diaphragm — free air, perforation until proven otherwise. No time for CT: surgical consult called immediately. Patient went to OR within the hour.""
Clinical Context
In CT, the scout (also called a topogram or localizer) is a rapid 2D image taken before the full scan to ensure proper positioning and coverage. On plain abdominal films (KUB/scout): look for free air (perforation), bowel gas pattern (obstruction: air-fluid levels, dilated loops), calcifications (kidney stones, gallstones, aortic aneurysm), and soft tissue masses. Scout film is low-radiation, fast, and often the correct first step before committing to CT.