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Alternative names Return to top
GI series; Barium swallow X-ray; Upper GI seriesDefinition Return to top
An Upper GI and small bowel series is a set of X-rays taken to examine the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. X-rays are taken after the patient has swallowed a barium suspension (contrast medium). See also barium enema (lower GI series).
X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation like light, but of higher energy, so they can penetrate the body to form an image on film. Structures that are dense (such as bone) will appear white, air will be black, and other structures will be shades of gray Barium is very dense and will appear white on the X-ray film.
How the test is performed Return to top
This test may be done in an office or in a hospital radiology department. You will be sitting or standing up while your heart, lungs, and abdomen are examined with a fluoroscope (a type of X-ray that projects images onto a monitor like a TV screen).
You may be given an injection of a medication that will temporarily slow bowel movement, so structures can be more easily imaged. You will then be given a drink like a milk shake that has a barium mixture in it. You must drink 16 oz to 20 oz. for the examination.
The passage of the barium through the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine is monitored on the fluoroscope. Pictures are taken with you in a variety of positions. The test usually takes around three hours. However, in some cases, it may take up to six hours to complete.
A GI series may include this test and/or a barium enema.
How to prepare for the test Return to top
You may be given a restricted diet for 2 or 3 days before the test. You will likely be told not to smoke or eat for a period of time before the test. Generally, oral medications may be taken.
Be sure to check with your health care provider regarding any dietary or medication restrictions before the test. Never discontinue or decrease medications without consulting your health care provider.
Remove all jewelry before the test.
Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:
How the test will feel Return to top
The X-ray causes no discomfort. The barium milk shake has a chalky texture.Why the test is performed Return to top
The purpose of the test is to detect anatomic or functional abnormalities of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine.Normal Values Return to top
The esophagus, stomach, and small intestine are normal in size and contour.What abnormal results mean Return to top
What the risks are Return to top
There is low radiation exposure, which carries a measurable but small risk of cancer. X-rays are monitored and regulated to provide the minimum amount of radiation exposure needed to produce the image. Most experts feel that the risk is low compared with the benefits.
Pregnant women and children are more sensitive to the risks of X-rays.
Barium may cause constipation. Consult your health care provider if the barium has not passed through your system by 2 or 3 days after the exam.
Special considerations Return to top
The upper GI series should be performed after other X-ray procedures, because the barium that is retained may obscure details in other imaging tests.
Update Date: 1/21/2003 Updated by: Benjamin Taragin, M.D., Department of Radiology, Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center, New York, NY. Review Provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |