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Upper Gastrointestinal Exam (UGI)
What is an upper gastrointestinal exam?
The Upper Gastrointestinal Series (UGI) includes an examination of the
esophagus, stomach, duodenum, and a portion of the small bowel. Or, if
necessary, a Small Bowel Series may be ordered to visualize the entire
small bowel.
Both
series require the use of Barium. Barium is a harmless, flavored, white
or pink liquid substance which, when swallowed, allows your Radiologist
to observe and document the condition of the digestive tract.
How should I prepare?
Appointments may be
scheduled at the Puyallup Imaging Center or the radiology departments
of our hospital locations. Patients are asked to prepare properly for
the examination so the digestive tract is free of liquid or food
particles when we do the examination.
Please do not eat or drink anything, chew gum or smoke for 6 to 8 hours before your appointment.
The
UGI Series usually takes an hour or less, but you should allow more
time for your visit in case extra views are needed or your stomach
empties more slowly than average.
A Small Bowel Series usually
requires 2-4 hours. In the event a Small Bowel Series is also needed,
feel free to ask us for information about the time required that day.
We'll
be happy to provide you access to a telephone if you need to make any
arrangements for transportation or to reschedule your personal
appointments resulting from an unexpected delay in completing the
examination.
What should I expect?
After checking in with
the receptionist, changing into your exam gown, and answering a few
questions for the Technologist concerning your symptoms and the
upcoming exam, you will meet the Radiologist. You will then swallow the
Barium.
You
may also be asked to swallow small crystals that will create gas to
distend your stomach so that the Barium better coats your stomach. A
fluoroscope will be used by the Radiologist to watch the fluid as it
travels through your G.I. tract. You will be asked to move into a
number of positions during the examination and hold your breath while
images of certain areas are taken.
Following the fluoroscopic portion of the examination, the Radiologist will leave the x-ray room.
Your
Technologist may take additional films as specified by the Radiologist.
Once again, you will be instructed to move into a number of positions
and hold your breath briefly during each exposure. Once home, you may
resume your regular diet, unless otherwise instructed by your
physician. The Barium may be constipating. Therefore, drink as much
fluid as possible and take the mild laxative provided for you following
your examination, unless otherwise instructed by your physician or the
Radiologist.
Results are usually available 3 working days after
the procedure. Please contact your referring physician for results at
that time.
Which location provides this service?
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