Esophagus (Barium Swallow)

Your physician has referred you to the Diagnostic Services Department at United Hospital Center for an esophagram, sometimes called a Barium Swallow. For this examination to be successful, it is important that your esophagus be empty at least 4 hours before the exam, so during that time, you will not be allowed food or liquids.

When you arrive in the Diagnostic Services Department you will be taken into one of the examination rooms. The technologist will ask you several questions to determine what kind of problems you have been experiencing. You will then be positioned behind a piece of equipment called a fluoroscope. You will be handed a cup containing a liquid barium mixture. The radiologist will instruct you when and how much to drink. He/she will watch as the barium flows down your esophagus and will be taking images while you swallow.

When the radiologist is finished with his/her part of the exam, you will be asked to remain on the table so that the technologist can get a few more images. You will be asked to drink more barium during these images. You will be asked to assume several different positions with assistance, if necessary.

After the films are checked, if no other images are needed your exam will be finished and you will be allowed to leave.

Afterward, your stool may look slightly white for a day or two. This is due to the barium. If you're have difficulty getting your bowels to move, tell your nurse or doctor. A laxative may be prescribed.

LENGTH: Approximately 30 minutes

If you are pregnant, or think you might be, tell your doctor and the technologist BEFORE your exam.