Barium X-ray

Definition

A barium X-ray is helpful to diagnose diseases of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine (colon).

Description

X-rays are a form of invisible electromagnetic energy of short wavelength (radiation) that is produced when high-speed electrons strike a heavy metal. X-rays can be used to produce images of bones, organs, and internal tissues. Low doses of X-rays are passed through the tissues and cast images - essentially shadows - onto film or a fluorescent screen showing structural changes in the area being examined.

Procedure

A barium x-ray is a group of procedures used to detect and follow the progress of some diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Hollow or fluid-filled parts of the body often do not show up well on X-ray film without contrast medium (dye) introduced into them. Liquid barium mixed with water is passed into the part of the tract that needs to be examined.

Some studies may require special preparation.

• Barium swallow. Barium is mixed with a flavored liquid and swallowed in the standing position. This procedure is used to investigate disorders of the esophagus.

• Barium meal. A piece of bread or cookie is soaked in barium then eaten while lying on the x-ray table. This procedure is used to investigate disorders of the lower esophagus, stomach and duodenum.

• Barium small-bowel follow-through. The patient lies on the right side and x-rays are taken at intervals until the barium has progressed through the small intestine. This procedure is used to investigate disorders of the small intestine.

• Barium small-bowel enema. The patient lies down and the x-ray technician passes a fine tube through the mouth or nose, down through the stomach and duodenum, and into the small intestine. This procedure is used to investigate disorders of the small intestine in more detail then a barium follow-through because more barium reaches the area.

• Barium enema. The patient is positioned on the x-ray table and a tube is inserted into the rectum. Barium is put through the tube and it fills the colon. This procedure is used to investigate disorders of the lower gastrointestinal tract (the large intestine and rectum).

Inside the body, the barium flows through your digestive system, outlining the folds and bends showing any abnormality, such as a tumor, ulcer, or inflammation. The radiologist (a doctor specializing in medical imaging) using a fluoroscope (x-ray machine with a TV screen) to watch the barium.

The radiologist will take "spot films," which are small standard x-rays of important areas. The procedure may be followed by a "double contrast study," when air is used to provide additional contrast on the film to identify any abnormalities.

After the barium x-ray you:

• may have whitish-colored stools for a few days until the barium is out of your system.

• can resume your normal diet but will need to drink plenty of water and eat foods high in fiber to help keep your bowels regular and clear the barium from your system.

• may want to talk to your doctor about prescribing a laxative if you become constipated after your exam.

X-ray Safety

It is now understood that large doses of radiation can be extremely harmful. Modern X-ray film, equipment, and techniques are designed specifically to produce high-quality images at the lowest possible radiation dose (exposure) to the patient. The possible hazard of genetic damage can be minimized by using a lead shield to protect the patient.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

How will a barium X-ray help?

What are the risks?

Is there any special preparation before the examination?

Is the examination painful?

How long does the procedure take?

Will I have whitish-colored stools due to the barium?