The ingestion of barium sulfate to outline the esophagus, stomach, and small intestines during x-ray or fluoroscopic examination. The exam may be used as an alternative to endoscopy to diagnose reflux, dysphagia, peptic disease, or other upper gastrointestinal conditions. Also called upper G.I. series.
A flavored beverage containing barium, a substance that is opaque to X-rays. When ingested, it highlights the intestines on the X-ray monitor, facilitating the radiologist in determining the intestinal health and identifying potential diseases. This method is often employed for the detection of gastric and duodenal ulcers.