Upper gastrointestinal study

This involves an X-ray examination of the esophagus, stomach and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum) by drinking a contrast fluid. This examination is performed in case of different stomach problems, or after stomach surgery.

What about pregnancy?

X-rays can be harmful to the unborn child. If you are pregnant or could be, discuss with your doctor whether the examination can be postponed or should be replaced by another examination. Always report this to the medical imager before the examination.

Course

Before the examination

An X-ray of the esophagus, stomach, and small bowel is only done by appointment and only based on a medical prescription. Please note that the investigation may start later than planned due to unforeseen circumstances.

For this examination, you must fast at least four hours in advance. We also ask you not to smoke before the examination because this irritates the stomach.

You can take important medication in the form of pills with a little water.

During the examination

You will be asked to remove your jewelry and put on an examination gown to protect your clothing (aprons are available).

You will have to change your position several times during the examination. You will have to take a sip of contrast fluid into your mouth several times and, at the request of the medical imager or radiologist, you will swallow it in one go. You may also need to swallow gas-forming granules to expand the stomach. 

The examination is not painful and takes about 20 minutes.

After the examination

The barium-containing contrast product can cause limited constipation: drink sufficient water for the first three days after the examination. The stool may be white for several days.

Depending on which type of contrast fluid was used, you may experience some degree of diarrhea for a short period of time.

The radiologist makes a report of all the findings. You will receive a code/link with which the images and the report can be viewed by yourself and the requesting doctor. The referring doctor will discuss the radiologic report and results with you.