In barium imaging using fluoroscopy, the GI tract is coated with an oral contrast; barium and imaged using live X-ray. This allows the radiologist to view and assess the anatomy and function of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum and the lower part of the GI tract if required.
A barium swallow examination is a fluoroscopic examinations of the pharynx and the oesophagus. It is often done in conjunction with a barium meal.
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You must fast from midnight the night before your examination.
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Do not eat or drink anything including water on the morning of your examination.
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Do not smoke on the morning of your examination.
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If your gender at birth was female and you are of childbearing age, this procedure must be carried out within the first 10 days of your cycle.
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If there is any possibility that you may be pregnant please inform us immediately on receipt of this appointment.
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Please note you will be required to change into a hospital gown for this examination.
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If you are of childbearing age you will be asked to fill out and sign a form to out-rule pregnancy.
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Once in the examination room you will be asked to drink a white fluid called Barium. This outlines the stomach and intestine.
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You will then have a series of x-rays taken.
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This examination may take up to half an hour.
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After the examination you will be able to eat and drink normally.
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You should drink plenty of fluids to help clear the bowel of barium.
The x-ray images will be reported by the radiologist and the results will be forwarded to your doctor within 5 working days.