What is a UGI with air contrast?

An upper gastrointestinal series (UGI) is a radiographic (X-ray) examination of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (first part of the small intestine) are made visible on X-ray film by a liquid suspension. This liquid suspension may be barium or a water-soluble contrast.

What is a UGI test for?

An upper GI series is done to find the cause of symptoms such as vomiting, burping up food, trouble swallowing, poor weight gain, bleeding, or belly pain. It’s used to find narrow spots or blockages in the upper intestinal tract. The test can also find ulcers, polyps, and pyloric stenosis.

How long does an upper GI barium test take?

The procedure usually takes about 2 hours. The procedure can take up to 5 hours if the barium moves slowly through your small intestine. For the procedure, you’ll be asked to stand or sit in front of an x-ray machine and drink barium, which coats the lining of your upper GI tract.

What can I expect after an upper GI?

There is minimal recovery involved with the upper endoscopy procedure, and little discomfort. Post-procedure symptoms may include grogginess from the sedation, a feeling of bloating, sore throat, nausea, difficulty swallowing, and mild pain where the IV was inserted. These usually resolve within 48 hours.

What is upper GI double-contrast?

An x-ray examination that evaluates only the pharynx and esophagus is called a barium swallow. In addition to drinking barium, some patients are also given baking-soda crystals (similar to Alka-Seltzer) to further improve the images. This procedure is called an air-contrast or double-contrast upper GI.

What is a UGI with small bowel?

The UGI with small bowel series is an X-ray of the upper gastrointestinal tract, including the entire small intestine. Within 24 hours prior to the test you will receive a phone call to answer any questions you may have. Depending on your child’s age, a period of not eating will be required.

Does barium make you poop?

Barium may cause constipation or impacted stool after the swallowing test if it isn’t completely cleared from your body. You can manage constipation by drinking plenty of fluids and eating foods high in fiber to help the rest of the barium leave your body.

What problems can upper GI endoscopy detect?

An upper GI endoscopy can be used to identify disorders or problems such as: GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) Narrowing (strictures) or blockages. Larger than normal veins in your esophagus (esophageal varices)

How is a UGI done?

Upper gastrointestinal tract radiography, also called an upper GI, is an x-ray examination of the esophagus, stomach and first part of the small intestine (also known as the duodenum). Images are produced using a special form of x-ray called fluoroscopy and an orally ingested contrast material such as barium.

What is the prep for an upper GI?

For a satisfactory exam, your stomach and upper GI tract must be empty. It is important that you not smoke, drink or eat anything, including gum or mints, after midnight the night before your exam. We want to make any time you have to wait as pleasant as possible.