UPPER GI SERIES (X-RAY OF YOUR STOMACH)

 

This fact sheet is designed to give you general information about your exam. Any individual problems or questions should be directed to your physician.

 

Upper Gastrointestinal Series:

This is an x-ray examination of the esophagus and stomach using barium (a white liquid that permits the visualization of the esophagus and stomach under fluoroscopy). This exam allows the radiologist to look at structures and the function of the esophagus and stomach in real time (as they are happening).

 

Preparation for the Exam:

The Upper GI is a scheduled exam and must be proceeded with a preparation diet. For the exam to be successful, your stomach must be empty. For this reason, you must not eat or drink anything after midnight, the night before the exam. Some departments may even require a low fat meal the evening before the exam.

 

The Examination:

1. A radiologist will perform the exam using a machine called a fluoroscope. You will begin the exam in an upright position with the fluoroscope equipment. The radiologist or technician will instruct you to swallow baking soda/E-Z-Gas effervescent granules (crystals that distend the stomach). It is important not to belch, as the gas assists the doctor in evaluating your stomach. You will then be given a cup containing liquid barium, which the radiologist will instruct you to drink. You will be asked to turn in different positions and to hold your breath so x-rays can be taken. You will also be laid flat on the table and rolled around several times to coat the stomach. The radiologist will further evaluate the stomach in the lying down position. After the radiologist has taken x-rays of the selected areas, the technician may take several more x-rays of your upper digestive tract (stomach, esophagus, etc.) with another piece of equipment.

2. You may be asked to wait while the radiologist reviews the films to make sure they contain all the necessary information. Occasionally more films may be required.

3. The exam will last approximately 15-20 minutes.

4. After the exam is completed you may resume your regular diet unless your doctor tells you otherwise. It may be beneficial to drink plenty of fluids after the exam. The barium should pass normally from your colon. The barium may color your stools slightly whitish for the next day or two.

5. You also should be able to return to duty/work with little or no discomfort. If you do not have a bowel movement within three days after the procedure, please inform your physician.

 

Interpretation of Results:

The radiologist will interpret the results of the procedure and will report the information to your physician, who in turn, will discuss the report with you.

 

* If we can be of further assistance to make your visit in our department more comfortable, please do not hesitate to ask any staff member.