BARIUM X-RAYS, GASTROINTESTINAL SERIES, AND BARIUM ENEMA
Barium, a white, sticky substance, is often used to investigate disorders of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, such as ulcer disease, hiatus hernia, benign and malignant tumors, and inflammatory disorders of the bowel. When barium is swallowed the substance outlines the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. Barium is given as an enema when the lower intestine is to be examined.
The upper gastrointestinal series, or barium swallow, is used to diagnose diseases of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. The barium, which tastes chalky but is usually flavored to make it palatable, can cause some constipation, and you will probably be given a laxative to help you expel it.
The test is usually done with a fluoroscope or video device, which allows the physician to watch the barium flow into the esophagus and stomach. A barium swallow is done in the fasting state. Any food or fluid that has been taken in the eight or ten hours before the study may interfere with an accurate interpretation of the X-rays.
A barium enema uses the same substance, but it is inserted into the rectum. This X-ray displays the lower intestine (large bowel). The test and the preparation for it are somewhat uncomfortable. Usually it is necessary to take laxatives for a day or two before the X-ray to clear the bowel. I sometimes recommend a more gradual preparation with a fluid diet for a day or two before. This often avoids the need for strong laxatives.
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