Upper GI and Small Bowel Series
Alternate Names : Barium Swallow X-Ray, GI Series, Upper GI Series
Definition
An Upper GI and small bowel series is a set of X-rays taken to examine the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. X-rays are taken after the patient has swallowed a barium suspension (contrast medium). See also barium enema (lower GI series).
X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation like light, but of higher energy, so they can penetrate the body to form an image on film. Structures that are dense (such as bone) will appear white, air will be black, and other structures will be shades of gray Barium is very dense and will appear white on the X-ray film.
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Why is the Test Performed?
The purpose of the test is to detect anatomic or functional abnormalities of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine.
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