Exam Explanation

An upper GI series is an examination of the stomach using barium to coat the walls of the upper digestive tract so that it may be examined under X-ray. Upper GI series are used to identify any abnormalities such as tumors, ulcers, hernias, pouches, strictures and swallowing difficulties.

Exam Preparation

Patients will be asked to refrain from eating or drinking after midnight on the night before the examination.

During the Exam

The patient will be asked to drink the barium and to swallow baking soda crystals. The patient may be asked to move in different positions while the X-rays are taken.