What is an Upper GI Series?
This information is designed to help you understand the test(s) you will be having.
Please arrive at the medical center 30 minutes before your scheduled test time.
Your examination will be interpreted by a Radiologist (physician specializing in medical imaging). The Radiologist will dictate a report that states your exam results. The report will be typed and sent to your physician. You can make arrangements with your physician on how you will receive your exam results (such as follow-up appointment, calling the physician office, etc.).
If you have any questions, please call the Radiology/Medical Imaging Department.
A Radiologist will begin the upper GI series procedure by asking you to drink a liquid called barium, which is relatively pleasant tasting. Barium is opaque to x-rays which allows an area to be seen on x-ray film. The Radiologist will take films at different intervals as the barium progresses through the esophagus. After reviewing films initially, the Radiologist may require additional films to be taken by a radiographer while you drink more barium. (see film example above)
PREPARATION:
(Newborn to three years)
Nothing by mouth 4 hours prior to the procedure.
(Three years to adult)
Clear liquids after 6PM. Nothing by mouth after midnight the night before the exam, except medications with water. If you have had barium within the last 3 day and it has not yet passed, the examination may have to be rescheduled. Do not smoke or chew gum the morning of this procedure. This will prevent extra secretions in your stomach.
LENGTH OF THE PROCEDURE:
The procedure will take approximately 30-60 minutes. Small bowel procedures may take 2-4 hours as more follow-up films are needed.
SPECIAL NOTES:
You will be asked to wear a hospital gown prior to and during the exam. Drink lots of fluids for 1-2 days following a barium procedure. If bowel movements are not normal within 24 hours, you may take a mild laxative. Any further questions, please contact your primary care physician.