What is a Stomach (Upper GI) exam?
An Upper GI examination is a diagnostic procedure which uses a “contrast agent” called barium sulfate and x-rays to obtain clear pictures of your upper gastrointestinal tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Ordinarily, x-rays pass through the soft tissues of the body, such as those found in your upper digestive tract. However, barium sulfate coats the walls of your upper digestive tract, thereby casting shadows that can be recorded in x-ray film. The Upper GI exam can detect problems within your upper digestive system. This procedure helps your doctor identify these problems with minimal risk and discomfort to you. What will the exam be like? The upper gastrointestinal (GI) examination will be performed by a radiologist specializing in GI examinations. For this exam, you will change from your clothing into a hospital gown. A technologist will gently position you on a special, tilting table supporting a piece of equipment called a fluoroscope — an x-ray machine com
