Barium Swallow

Introduction

Contrast in esophagus. Shows smoothness, strictures, carcinomas.

Contrast studies such as barium or diatrizoate may be given by mouth or rectum to detect mucosal abnormalities (ulcerations or masses), strictures, herniations, diverticula, and abnormal peristalsis.

An upper GI series includes several images as ingested contrast travels through the esopahgus, stomach, and duodenum. It defines gastric abnormalities such as mucosal ulcerations and thickening, and can be used to evaluate possible gastric outlet outlet obstruction. Small bowel follow-through studies can be used to visualize the jejunum and ileum.

Single- and double-contrast barium enemas can detect colon polyps, ulcerations, strictures, and diverticula. In combination with flexible sigmoidoscopy, barium enemas can be used to screen for colonoscopy, but they are largely being replaced by endoscopic evaluations due to their sensitivity and ability to biopsy or remove suspicious lesions.