UPPER GASTROINTESTINAL

An upper gastrointestinal (GI) X-ray is a fluoroscopy exam that is used to investigate problems with the pharynx, esophagus, stomach and first part of the small intestine. The study helps physicians detect and diagnose ulcers, tumors, inflammation, hiatal hernias, blockages and abnormalities of the muscular wall of gastrointestinal tissues.

The procedure is useful if a patient is having difficulty swallowing, reflux, unexplained vomiting, severe indigestion, or blood in the stool.

What should I expect?

You will be asked to swallow a special barium drink. The radiologist will use a fluoroscope to take real-time pictures as the barium passes through the digestive tract.

You will be positioned at different angles to help move the barium through different parts of your body. After the upper gastrointestinal tract is adequately coated with the barium, more x-ray images will be taken. To prevent blurry images, you will need to remain still and hold your breath for a few seconds at a time during the X-ray.

The exam is usually completed within 20 to 30 minutes.

An exam of the upper GI is generally performed in the morning to reduce the amount of time a patient has to fast.

Women who may possibly be pregnant should notify the technologist immediately.