About Barium Swallow (Upper GI Series)
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Learn about the disease, illness and/or condition Barium Swallow (Upper GI Series) including: symptoms, causes, treatments, contraindications and conditions at ClusterMed.info.
Barium Swallow (Upper GI Series)
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Barium Swallow (Upper GI Series) |
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Barium Swallow (Upper GI Series) InformationUpper GI series facts
How does a patient prepare for an upper GI series, and how is it performed?A radiology technologist guides the patient through the upper GI series along with a radiologist (a physician trained in performing and interpreting x-rays). Because an upper GI series involves interpreting images of the gastrointestinal system, it is important that any materials or objects internally or externally that could potentially interfere with interpretation of the X-ray film be avoided. Therefore, patients are requested not to eat or drink anything from four to eight hours before the procedure. Patients also are asked to remove their clothing and all metallic objects such as jewelry.
How does the patient obtain the results of the upper GI series?After the radiology technician develops the X-ray film or digital image, it is transferred to the radiologist. This physician interprets the films. The radiologist then generates a report that is transmitted to the physician who requested the test. The radiologist and the practitioner often review the findings together. The practitioner can review the results of the upper GI series with the patient and can proceed with therapy or discuss whether other tests may be necessary. What are the risks of an upper GI series?Any x-ray test procedure involves some risk from radiation exposure. The radiation exposure is minimized by standard techniques that have been assigned and approved by national and international radiology committees and councils. Radiology technicians are certified by national certifying boards. Patients who are or may be pregnant should notify the requesting practitioner and radiology staff, as there is potential risk of harm to the fetus with any radiation exposure. What is an upper gastrointestinal (GI) series?An upper gastrointestinal (GI) series (barium swallow), is a radiological test that is used to visualize the structures of the upper digestive system - the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. (If visualization of the remaining parts of the small intestine is necessary, a small bowel follow through can be added to the test.) These structures are observed during the examination, and the images are also saved for further review on X-ray film or as digital images. An upper GI series can reveal conditions such as ulcers, tumors, hiatal hernias, scarring, blockages, and abnormalities of the muscular wall of the gastrointestinal tissues. |
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