What is a barium swallow examination. How is a barium swallow test performed. What conditions can a barium swallow diagnose. Are there any risks associated with a barium swallow test. How should patients prepare for a barium swallow examination. What do the results of a barium swallow mean. When might a doctor recommend a barium swallow test.

Understanding the X-Ray Barium Swallow Examination

An X-ray barium swallow, also known as an esophagogram or cine esophagram, is a specialized radiological examination used to evaluate the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This diagnostic procedure employs fluoroscopy, a type of real-time X-ray imaging, combined with a barium-containing contrast medium to visualize the structures and functions of the mouth, throat, esophagus, stomach, and the initial portion of the small intestine.

The barium swallow test is an invaluable tool in the diagnosis and assessment of various upper GI tract disorders. By providing detailed images of these anatomical structures in motion, it allows healthcare professionals to identify abnormalities that may not be apparent through other diagnostic methods.

Key Components of the Barium Swallow Test

• Fluoroscopy: A specialized X-ray technique that captures moving images in real-time
• Barium sulfate: A chalky, radio-opaque substance that enhances visibility of the GI tract on X-rays
• Radiologist or radiology technician: Specialized medical professionals who conduct and interpret the examination

The Diagnostic Power of Barium Swallow Examinations

Barium swallow tests are instrumental in diagnosing a wide range of upper GI tract conditions. Their ability to capture both structural and functional aspects of the digestive system makes them particularly useful for identifying:

• Ulcers in the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum
• Hiatal hernias, where part of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Structural abnormalities such as polyps, tumors, or diverticula
• Swallowing disorders (dysphagia)
• Esophageal strictures or narrowing

Can a barium swallow detect cancer? While a barium swallow can reveal suspicious areas that may indicate cancer, it is not definitive for cancer diagnosis. Abnormal findings often require follow-up tests, such as endoscopy with biopsy, for confirmation.

The Barium Swallow Procedure: What to Expect

Understanding the steps involved in a barium swallow examination can help patients feel more comfortable and prepared for the procedure. Here’s a typical sequence of events:

1. Patient preparation: Removal of clothing and jewelry, changing into a hospital gown
2. Protective measures: Placement of a lead shield or apron to protect from unnecessary radiation exposure
3. Positioning: The patient may stand, sit, or lie on an X-ray table, with position changes during the exam
4. Contrast administration: Ingestion of the barium sulfate mixture, often flavored to improve palatability
5. Imaging: Real-time fluoroscopic imaging as the barium travels through the upper GI tract
6. Special maneuvers: Patients may be asked to hold their breath or perform specific movements
7. Image recording: Capture and storage of images for later review and analysis

How long does a barium swallow test take? The entire procedure typically lasts between 15 to 30 minutes, although this can vary depending on the specific areas being examined and any complications that may arise.

Preparing for Your Barium Swallow Examination

Proper preparation is crucial for obtaining accurate results from a barium swallow test. Patients are usually instructed to follow these guidelines:

• Fast for 8-12 hours prior to the examination, typically after midnight the night before
• Avoid smoking and chewing gum on the day of the test
• Inform the healthcare provider of any medications being taken, as some may need to be temporarily discontinued
• Notify the medical team of any allergies, especially to contrast materials
• Remove all metal objects, including jewelry and dental appliances, before the procedure

Is there any special diet to follow after a barium swallow? After the test, patients are encouraged to drink plenty of fluids to help eliminate the barium from their system. A high-fiber diet can also aid in clearing the barium more quickly.

Interpreting Barium Swallow Results: Normal vs. Abnormal Findings

The interpretation of barium swallow results requires expertise in radiology and gastrointestinal disorders. Here’s what different outcomes might signify:

Normal Results

A normal barium swallow examination reveals:

• Smooth, unobstructed passage of barium through the upper GI tract
• No abnormalities in the size, shape, or movement of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum
• Absence of filling defects, strictures, or masses

Abnormal Results

Abnormal findings may include:

• Hiatal hernia: Protrusion of the stomach through the diaphragm
• Ulcers: Appearing as craters or indentations in the GI lining
• Tumors: Visible as filling defects or irregular contours
• Polyps: Small, rounded projections from the GI wall
• Diverticula: Pouches or sacs protruding from the GI tract
• Esophageal strictures: Narrowing of the esophagus
• Motility disorders: Abnormal movement patterns of the GI tract

How accurate is a barium swallow in detecting GI abnormalities? While highly informative, barium swallow tests are not 100% accurate. Some conditions may be missed, and others may require additional diagnostic procedures for confirmation.

Risks and Safety Considerations of Barium Swallow Examinations

Barium swallow tests are generally considered safe, with minimal risks for most patients. However, it’s important to be aware of potential concerns:

• Radiation exposure: Although the radiation dose is low, cumulative exposure should be considered
• Allergic reactions: Rare, but possible, especially to flavoring agents added to the barium
• Constipation: Barium can cause temporary constipation in some individuals
• Aspiration: In patients with swallowing difficulties, there’s a risk of barium entering the lungs

Is a barium swallow safe during pregnancy? Barium swallow tests are typically avoided during pregnancy due to the potential risks of radiation exposure to the fetus. Alternative diagnostic methods are usually recommended for pregnant women.

Beyond Barium: Alternative and Complementary Diagnostic Techniques

While barium swallow examinations are valuable diagnostic tools, they are often used in conjunction with or as alternatives to other procedures:

• Endoscopy: Allows direct visualization and biopsy of the upper GI tract
• CT scans: Provide detailed cross-sectional images of the GI organs
• MRI: Offers high-resolution images without radiation exposure
• Manometry: Measures pressure and muscle function in the esophagus
• pH monitoring: Assesses acid reflux over an extended period

When might a doctor recommend an alternative to a barium swallow? Alternatives may be suggested if there’s a need for tissue sampling, if radiation exposure is a concern, or if more detailed imaging of surrounding structures is required.

Advances in Barium Swallow Technology and Techniques

The field of diagnostic radiology continues to evolve, bringing improvements to barium swallow examinations:

• Digital fluoroscopy: Enhances image quality while reducing radiation exposure
• 3D reconstructions: Provide more detailed views of anatomical structures
• Dual-energy subtraction: Improves visualization of soft tissues
• AI-assisted analysis: Helps in detecting subtle abnormalities and improving diagnostic accuracy

How have technological advancements improved barium swallow examinations? Modern techniques have enhanced image quality, reduced radiation doses, and improved the overall diagnostic capabilities of barium swallow tests, leading to more accurate and efficient diagnoses.

In conclusion, the X-ray barium swallow examination remains a cornerstone in the diagnosis of upper gastrointestinal disorders. Its ability to provide real-time, functional imaging of the GI tract makes it an invaluable tool for healthcare providers. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even greater improvements in the accuracy, safety, and patient experience of this essential diagnostic procedure. Patients undergoing a barium swallow can be assured that they are benefiting from a well-established and continually evolving diagnostic technique that plays a crucial role in maintaining gastrointestinal health.

Barium Swallow: MedlinePlus Medical Test

What is a barium swallow?

A barium swallow, also called an esophagogram, is an imaging test that checks for problems in your upper GI tract. Your upper GI tract includes your mouth, back of the throat, esophagus, stomach, and first part of your small intestine. The test uses a special type of x-ray called fluoroscopy. Fluoroscopy shows internal organs moving in real time. The test also involves drinking a chalky-tasting liquid that contains barium. Barium is a substance that makes parts of your body show up more clearly on an x-ray.

Other names: esophagogram, esophagram, upper GI series, swallowing study

What is it used for?

A barium swallow is used to help diagnose conditions that affect the throat, esophagus, stomach, and first part the small intestine. These include:

• Ulcers
• Hiatal hernia, a condition in which part of your stomach pushes into the diaphragm. The diaphragm is the muscle between your stomach and chest.
• GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), a condition in which contents of the stomach leak backward into the esophagus
• Structural problems in the GI tract, such as polyps (abnormal growths) and diverticula (pouches in the intestinal wall)
• Tumors

Why do I need a barium swallow?

You may need this test if you have symptoms of an upper GI disorder. These include:

• Trouble swallowing
• Abdominal pain
• Vomiting
• Bloating

What happens during a barium swallow?

A barium swallow is most often done by a radiologist or radiology technician. A radiologist is a doctor who specializes in using imaging tests to diagnose and treat diseases and injuries.

A barium swallow usually includes the following steps:

• You may need to remove your clothing. If so, you will be given a hospital gown.
• You will be given a lead shield or apron to wear over your pelvic area. This protects the area from unnecessary radiation.
• You will stand, sit, or lie down on an x-ray table. You may be asked to change positions during the test.
• You will swallow a drink that contains barium. The drink is thick and chalky. It’s usually flavored with chocolate or strawberry to make it easier to swallow.
• While you swallow, the radiologist will watch images of the barium traveling down your throat to your upper GI tract.
• You may be asked to hold your breath at certain times.
• The images will be recorded so they can be reviewed at a later time.

Will I need to do anything to prepare for the test?

You will probably be asked to fast (not eat or drink) after midnight on the night before the test.

Are there any risks to the test?

You should not have this test if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant. Radiation can be harmful to an unborn baby.

For others, there is little risk to having this test. The dose of radiation is very low and not considered harmful for most people. But talk to your provider about all the x-rays you’ve had in the past. The risks from radiation exposure may be linked to the number of x-ray treatments you’ve had over time.

What do the results mean?

A normal result means that no abnormalities in size, shape, and movement were found in your throat, esophagus, stomach, or first part of the small intestine.

If your results were not normal, it may mean you have one of the following conditions:

• Hiatal hernia
• Ulcers
• Tumors
• Polyps
• Diverticula, a condition in which small sacs form in the inner wall of the intestine
• Esophageal stricture, a narrowing of the esophagus that can make it hard to swallow

If you have questions about your results, talk to your health care provider.

Is there anything else I need to know about a barium swallow?

Your results may also show signs of esophageal cancer. If your provider thinks you may have this type of cancer, he or she may do a procedure called an esophagoscopy. During an esophagoscopy, a thin, flexible tube is inserted through the mouth or nose and down into the esophagus. The tube has a video camera so a provider can view the area. The tube may also have a tool attached that can be used to remove tissue samples for testing (biopsy).

References

1. ACR: American College of Radiology [Internet]. Reston (VA): American College of Radiology; What Is a Radiologist?; [cited 2020 Jun 26]; [about 4 screens]. Available from: https://www.acr.org/Practice-Management-Quality-Informatics/Practice-Toolkit/Patient-Resources/About-Radiology
2. Cancer.Net [Internet]. Alexandria (VA): American Society of Clinical Oncology; 2005–2020. Esophageal Cancer: Diagnosis; 2019 Oct [cited 2020 Jun 26]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/esophageal-cancer/diagnosis
3. Hinkle J, Cheever K. Brunner & Suddarth’s Handbook of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. 2nd Ed, Kindle. Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer Health, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; c2014. Barium Swallow; p. 79.
4. Johns Hopkins Medicine [Internet]. Baltimore: The Johns Hopkins University; c2020. Health: Barium Swallow; [cited 2020 Jun 26]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/barium-swallow
5. RadiologyInfo.org [Internet]. Radiological Society of North America, Inc.; c2020. Esophageal Cancer; [cited 2020 Jun 26]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=esophageal-cancer
6. RadiologyInfo.org [Internet]. Radiological Society of North America, Inc.; c2020. X-ray (Radiography) – Upper GI Tract; [cited 2020 Jun 26]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=uppergi
7. UF Health: University of Florida Health [Internet]. Gainesville (FL): University of Florida Health; c2020. Gastroesophageal reflux disease: Overview; [updated 2020 Jun 26; cited 2020 Jun 26]; [about 2 screens]. Available from: https://ufhealth.org/gastroesophageal-reflux-disease
8. UF Health: University of Florida Health [Internet]. Gainesville (FL): University of Florida Health; c2020. Hiatal hernia: Overview; [updated 2020 Jun 26; cited 2020 Jun 26]; [about 2 screens]. Available from: https://ufhealth.org/hiatal-hernia
9. UF Health: University of Florida Health [Internet]. Gainesville (FL): University of Florida Health; c2020. Upper GI and small bowel series: Overview; [updated 2020 Jun 26; cited 2020 Jun 26]; [about 2 screens]. Available from: https://ufhealth.org/upper-gi-and-small-bowel-series
10. University of Rochester Medical Center [Internet]. Rochester (NY): University of Rochester Medical Center; c2020. Health Encyclopedia: Barium Swallow; [cited 2020 Jun 26]; [about 2 screens]. Available from: https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=92&contentid=P07688
11. UW Health [Internet]. Madison (WI): University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority; c2021. Swallowing Study; [cited 2021 Aug 29]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: https://patient.uwhealth. org/healthwise/article/abr2463
12. Very Well Health [Internet]. New York: About, Inc.; c2020. Barium Swallow and Small Bowel Follow Through; [updated 2020 Mar 11; cited 2020 Jun 26]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: https://www.verywellhealth.com/barium-x-rays-1742250

What to Expect, Side Effects, and Cost

Barium Swallow: What to Expect, Side Effects, and Cost

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Medically reviewed by Graham Rogers, M. D. — By Erica Cirino — Updated on April 22, 2017

What is a barium swallow?

A barium swallow is a special type of X-ray test that helps your doctor take a close look at the back of your mouth and throat, known as the pharynx, and the tube that extends from the back of the tongue down to the stomach, known as the esophagus.

Your doctor may ask you to do a barium swallow to help diagnose any conditions that make it difficult for you to swallow or if they suspect that you have a disorder of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Your upper GI tract includes:

• the esophagus
• the stomach
• the first part of the small intestine, called the duodenum

To do a barium swallow, you swallow a chalky white substance known as barium. It’s often mixed with water to make a thick drink that looks like a milkshake. When it’s swallowed, this liquid coats the inside of your upper GI.

Barium absorbs X-rays and looks white on X-ray film. This helps highlight these organs, as well as their inside linings and the motion of your swallowing, on the X-ray image. These images help your doctor diagnose any disorders of the GI tract.

Your doctor may order a barium swallow to help diagnose a possible structural or functional problem with your upper GI tract. Some common problems that a barium swallow may help diagnose include:

• hiatal hernia
• inflammation
• blockages
• muscle disorders that could lead to difficulty swallowing or spasms
• gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• ulcers
• both cancerous and noncancerous tumors

Sometimes a barium swallow is done as part of a series of X-rays that look at the whole upper GI tract. A continuous X-ray beam, called a fluoroscopy, is often used during a barium swallow to capture movement through your GI tract.

A common test that accompanies the barium swallow is the upper GI endoscopy, also known as an esophagogastroduodenoscopy, or EGD. Barium swallows are also often done as part of an upper GI and small bowel series of tests.

It’s important to follow the dietary guidelines your doctor gives you before your procedure. You are not supposed to eat or drink anything for six hours before your procedure. You may take small sips of water up until two hours before your procedure.

If you are getting additional tests done or have any existing medical conditions, the directions your doctor gives you may be slightly different. You should notify your doctor before your procedure if you have or have had any of the following conditions:

• an esophageal or bowel perforation
• bowel obstruction
• difficulty swallowing
• severe constipation

These conditions may disqualify you from doing a barium swallow, as they increase the risk of complications.

Your doctor will direct you to your local radiology facility for your barium swallow. A trained radiology technician will perform the procedure. From start to finish, a barium swallow takes about 30 minutes. You will get your results within several days of your procedure.

Once you’re at the radiology facility, you will be asked to remove your clothing and jewelry and secure your belongings in a locker. You’ll change into a medical gown provided by your doctor.

Your technician will position you on an X-ray table. They may ask you to move your body position as they take standard X-rays of your heart, lungs, and abdomen.

Then, your technician will give you a barium drink to swallow. They will take single X-rays, a series of X-rays, or a fluoroscopy to watch how the barium moves through your pharynx. You might have to hold your breath at certain times to prevent any movement from disrupting the X-ray images.

Next, the technician will give you a thinner barium drink to swallow. They will again take X-rays or a fluoroscopy to watch how the barium moves down the esophagus.

When all X-rays are complete, you can gather your things and leave. You can go back to your normal diet and daily activities after your barium swallow procedure unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Your doctor’s office will be in touch within a few days to go over the results of your test and to schedule any follow-ups that may be needed.

Here is an example of a normal barium swallow study, in which the barium (the dark liquid) is seen moving down the esophagus without any leakage or regurgitation (reflux):

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Photo: Anka Friedrich / commons.wikimedia.org

The barium you swallow is artificially flavored and sweetened. However, many people report that it tastes bitter or chalky.

If you have health insurance, a barium swallow may be fully or partially covered. If you don’t have insurance, the procedure may cost between $300 and $450. This covers the costs of your doctor’s time interpreting the X-rays as well as the cost of the technicians who perform the procedure.

If the barium is not completely expelled from your body after the procedure, it can sometimes cause constipation or fecal impaction. You should drink lots of fluids and eat high-fiber foods to help move the barium through your digestive tract and out of your body. If that doesn’t help, your doctor might give you a laxative to help move it through.

After your procedure, you might notice that your bowel movements are lighter in color. This happens because your body doesn’t absorb the barium. Your stool will return to its normal color once all the barium has been expelled.

Be sure to contact your doctor right away if:

• You have trouble having a bowel movement or can’t have a bowel movement.
• You have pain or bloating in your abdomen.
• You have stools that are smaller in diameter than usual.

Also, barium swallows involve exposure to radiation, like all X-ray procedures. The risks of complications related to radiation exposure accumulate over time and are linked to the number of X-ray exams and treatments a person receives in their life. It can be helpful to share a record of past radiation procedures with your doctor before your barium swallow.

Exposure to radiation during pregnancy can cause birth defects in unborn fetuses. Because of this, pregnant women should not undergo barium swallow procedures.

The barium swallow is a less invasive way to look at the upper GI tract than an endoscopy. Barium swallows are a useful diagnostic tool for checking for upper GI tract disorders that can be easily diagnosed with X-ray alone. More complex disorders require endoscopy.

Here’s how to stay comfortable before, during, and after a barium swallow:

Tips

• Wear loose-fitting clothing that’s easy to remove and put back on.
• Remove all jewelry at home before you go in for your procedure.
• Be sure to eat and drink enough the night before your procedure before starting your fast at midnight. It may help to schedule your barium swallow for first thing in the morning so you don’t have to avoid food or drink for too long.
• Be prepared for the barium to taste unpleasant.
• Bring something to eat and drink after your procedure. Foods that are high in fiber — including fruits like apples, bananas, and raspberries — can help prevent constipation as well as get rid of the taste.
• Make sure you drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day after your procedure.

Was this helpful?

Last medically reviewed on April 10, 2017

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

• Barium swallow. (n.d.).Retrieved from
  hopkinsmedicine.org/healthlibrary/test_procedures/gastroenterology/barium_swallow_92,P07688/
• Barium swallow (upper gastrointestinal series or “upper GI series”). (2014, June)
  health.harvard.edu/digestive-health/barium-swallow-upper-gastrointestinal-series-or-quotupper-gi-seriesquot
• Barium swallow study (esophagram). (2017, January)
  nationaljewish.org/programs/tests/imaging/barium-swallow-study/
• Mayo Clinic Staff. (2015, October 8). Chart of high-fiber foods
  mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/high-fiber-foods/art-20050948
• Upper GI endoscopy. (n.d.)
  hopkinsmedicine.org/healthlibrary/test_procedures/gastroenterology/esophagogastroduodenoscopy_92,p07717/

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Apr 22, 2017

Written By

Erica Cirino

Apr 10, 2017

Medically Reviewed By

Graham Rogers, MD

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Medically reviewed by Graham Rogers, M.D. — By Erica Cirino — Updated on April 22, 2017

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Barium for x-ray of the stomach – what it is, how and why it is done

X-ray of the stomach – a manipulation carried out to examine the stomach as an organ for the presence of pathologies with the possibility of fixing in the form of an image on which you can see the fine details of the organ. To undergo an X-ray examination, it is recommended to adhere to a slag-free diet and not to eat sweets. It will not be superfluous to conduct a cleansing enema.

X-ray barium

X-ray barium is a special active substance, odorless white powder, friable. This is a radiopaque agent that has an enveloping property. To obtain clarity of the image in the picture and visualization of the microrelief of the gastrointestinal tract, the patient is invited to use this drug inside. Peak contrast is reached in 20-90 minutes. The clarity and speed of achieving the effect depends on the passage of the agent and the position of the human body. Barium is absolutely safe for humans, as it has low toxicity. Absorption of the substance does not occur in the gastrointestinal tract and it is excreted up to two days.

Prescribe a remedy for the purpose of X-ray examination, for a clear and more accurate study:

• Esophagus
• Stomach
• Duodenum.

Contraindications:

• Violation of the integrity of the gastrointestinal tract
• Violation of the act of swallowing
• Fistulas
• Allergy
• Postoperative period (wounds).

Contrast study not recommended during pregnancy and lactation. Otherwise, you should stop feeding for 24 hours after the procedure.

The use of the drug takes place under the supervision of a doctor inside for x-ray examination of the upper parts of the digestive tract. It looks like an aqueous suspension prepared a few minutes before the procedure. Barium sulfate is biologically inert and does not react with other drugs.

Why is a stomach x-ray done with barium?

You can see the answer to this question for yourself on the x-ray. It is barium that has the property of reflecting ionizing rays, which makes it possible to obtain an accurate image of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The use of the drug makes it possible to assess the state of the stomach, size and consider diverticula. For example, to establish the location of the hernia. The doctor can distinguish the area of ​​damage from other pathologies.

Barium x-ray shows hernia, ulcers, polyps, neoplasms, duodenal dysfunction, malabsorption.

Test indications:

• Heartburn
• Belching
• Chest pain
• Rapid weight loss (anorexia)
• Blood in stool
• Constipation, etc.

Contraindications:

• Pregnancy
• Serious condition
• Gastrointestinal bleeding.

How do I prepare for a barium stomach x-ray?

Proper preparation for this examination is an essential part of the success of the procedure and an accurate diagnosis. Three days before the study, the patient must follow a simple diet that excludes foods that cause bloating (fatty, fried foods, bread, fresh fruits and vegetables). The best food option, for example, would be chicken, porridge cooked in water is suitable. With existing constipation, it is necessary to conduct a cleansing enema, and if the examination of the stomach is obstructed, it is washed with a probe. An x-ray of the stomach is taken on an empty stomach. Before the procedure, you can not drink and eat for ten hours. Before starting the X-ray, the patient must remove all jewelry and removable dentures.

Barium fluoroscopy process

The first image, an overview, is taken to detect possible pathological changes. After receiving the first image, the subject is asked to use a contrast agent. Then another picture is taken, and the doctor examines the relief of the esophagus and its walls, then the patient finishes the drug and further examination of the gastrointestinal tract takes place. Periodically, the patient changes position at the request of the doctor.

Both the radiologist and the gastroenterologist analyze the result. They monitor the rate of movement of barium through the esophagus, stomach to the duodenum. This information indicates the presence of dysmotility, movement of food from the stomach or esophagus, or their absence.

It can be said that diseases of the gastrointestinal tract have a high level even in progressive countries. Everything is connected with the accelerated pace of life and malnutrition (malnutrition, overeating), inadequate food quality. The main cause of complications is untimely seeking medical help. Based on this, fluoroscopy remains a popular research method.

How to remove barium from the body after an x-ray?

This question worries a lot of people undergoing a stomach x-ray with contrast. But not everything is as scary as it seems at first glance. Experts do not recommend the use of cleansing enemas and laxatives. For effective removal of barium, it will be sufficient to change the drinking regimen, you should eat more plant foods. In general, the procedure performed with barium is safe and painless.

Barium x-ray of the stomach | Diagnostic Center Health Clinic on Maroseyka

Examination duration : 15 min.

Preparation for examination : yes

Contraindications : yes

Preparation of conclusion : 30-60 min.

Restrictions : yes

Radiography with barium sulfate is aimed at studying the state of the gastrointestinal tract. The contrast medium facilitates the examination of the internal organs, their relief, contours and shape, dimensions.

The essence of the method

Hollow organs are difficult to fully visualize, so a mixture of barium is injected before scanning. It stains tissues that are shaded on x-rays. Thus, in the picture of the examination, the walls of the large intestine, parts of the small intestine, stomach, esophagus are clearly seen, and foci of pathologies are identified.

Readings

The doctor issues a referral for diagnostics in case of the following complaints:

• Abdominal pain.
• Unstable bowel function.
• Changes in the color and texture of feces.
• Blood in the stool.
• Abrupt weight loss.
• Intestinal gases.

Preparation

If it is planned to inject barium sulfate before the X-ray, the patient should prepare in advance for the procedure:

• Follow the diet for 2-3 days. It is necessary to stop taking flour, dairy, spicy, smoked foods, legumes, black bread, carbonated drinks. Food should be easily digestible.
• For a day, cleanse the intestines with laxatives. The dosage and number of doses is calculated according to the instructions in accordance with the weight. With proper cleansing, an enema is not needed.

The barium x-ray is taken on an empty stomach in the morning, so you should not eat breakfast before the scan. You should leave jewelry at home, wear loose-fitting clothes without metal inserts.

How a barium x-ray is performed

First, the doctor injects a contrast agent. Usually 400-600 ml of barium sulfate solution is given in liquid form. The patient drinks it and waits for 10-15 minutes. Next, the subject takes the desired position, scanning begins, which lasts 50-60 minutes. During this time, the patient lies motionless, and the device takes 6 to 10 shots to assess the state of the gastrointestinal tract in dynamics. If necessary, the doctor asks to roll over.
Barium is excreted from the body within a day. To speed up, it is recommended to drink more non-carbonated water.

Where to get a barium x-ray

In the Health Clinic, located in the very center of the capital, the examination is carried out on modern high-precision expert-class equipment. Qualified doctors with extensive experience will carefully examine the internal organs and describe the condition of the stomach.

How to reach us:

Green color indicates the way by car to the parking place at our Diagnostic Center.
Red dotted dots – the walking path from the station. Kitai-Gorod metro station, exit No. 6. Go to the Health Clinic for 1 minute, the main thing is not to miss the entrance to the arch of the house, it is 20 meters from the exit of the metro. In the courtyard of this house is the entrance to our Diagnostic Center Health Clinic.

Patients of the Diagnostic Center are provided with free parking. Reservation of a place for a car is made no later than one hour before arrival at the clinic. Call: +7 (495) 628-22-05

Results

Within an hour, a specialist from the Health Clinic interprets the images, and then hands them over to the patient. The attending physician, based on the results of the examination, establishes or refutes such diseases as stomach ulcers, tumors of various etiologies, protrusion of the gastric walls, intestinal obstruction, hernia, dyskinesia, etc.

Barium x-ray recording

In order to sign up for an x-ray, choose any method:

– Call the clinic: +7 (495) 628-22-05,
– Request a call back,
– Write or call via online chat, in the right corner of the page,
– Immediately make an appointment through a convenient form on the website:

RECORDING FOR A STOMACH X-RAY WITH BARIUM

Contraindications

It is necessary to choose a different diagnostic method in the presence of the following restrictions on X-ray with barium:

• Pregnancy.