- a radiographic contrast study of the UGI tract from the mouth(esophagus) to the upper small intestine(duodenum).

Indications

An upper GI series is frequently requested when a patient experiences unexplained symptoms of abdominal pain, difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia), regurgitation, diarrhea, or unexplained weight loss. It is used to help diagnose disorders and diseases of, or related to, the upper gastrointestinal tract. Some of these conditions are: hiatal hernia, diverticula, tumors, obstruction, gastroesophageal reflux disease, pulmonary aspiration, and inflammation (e.g., ulcers, enteritis, and Crohn's disease).

Glucagon, a medication sometimes given prior to an upper GI procedure, may cause nausea and dizziness. It is used to relax the natural movements of the stomach, which will enhance the overall study.

Patient Preparations

• Fasting ( 6-8 hrs NPO, no breakfast)
• Laxatives (4 tablets dulcolax at bedtime, 1 suppository at early in the morning)
• No breakfast

Materials

• Barium sulfate solution
• Container

Procedure

• Scout film of the abdomen (AP)
• CR level of the iliac crest

Method

A. Single Contrast

1. Px in upright position and drinks thin barium solution (chalky-tasting liquid)
2. Px in prone position to observe esophageal motility

- spot film of GEJ, antrhum and duodenal bulb

3. Turn px in supine position under fluoroscopic control
4. Turn px in LPO for air contrast of antrhum and duodenal bulb
5. Exposures of LPO and RAO of stomach and abdomen PA

B. Double Contrast

1. Combination of air and barium sulfate
2. Px lies on prone position in the x-ray table and rolls to supine through the left side
3. Spot films

• body of stomach with px in supine position
• anthrum with px in LPO position
• masser curvature with px in RPO
• fundus with px in RAO

4. Do esophagogram using fluoroscopy
5. for duodenal bulb – px in RAO then LPO

Exposures

• abdomen PA and AP
• stomach LPO and RAO