Diagnostic procedures employed for the detection and monitoring of certain gastrointestinal disorders involve the use of barium, a metallic element that is opaque to X-rays. By introducing a mixture of barium sulfate and water into the specific region of the gastrointestinal tract under examination, the organs, such as the stomach, which are typically not visible on X-ray images, can be outlined and visualized. In certain cases, barium X-ray examinations may serve as an alternative to endoscopy, a procedure involving the internal examination of the tract using a rigid or flexible viewing tube. However, endoscopy is often the preferred method of investigation.
Barium X-rays can be categorized as single-contrast or double-contrast examinations. In single-contrast X-rays, only barium sulfate is used, filling the specific section of the gastrointestinal tract being examined. This creates a distinct outline image that highlights any noticeable abnormalities. On the other hand, double-contrast barium X-rays involve the application of a thin barium film on the inner surface of the tract. Subsequently, the tract is filled with air, allowing for the visualization of small surface irregularities.
Different types of barium X-ray examinations are employed to investigate various segments of the gastrointestinal tract. A barium swallow entails the ingestion of a barium solution and is utilized to assess the swallowing mechanism and examine the esophagus. On the other hand, a barium meal is conducted to examine the lower esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
To investigate disorders of the small intestine, a barium follow-through examination is conducted. In this procedure, after swallowing barium, a series of X-rays are taken at intervals as the barium progresses from the esophagus to the intestine. On the other hand, a barium enema is utilized to investigate disorders of the large intestine and rectum. In this examination, barium is introduced into the body through a tube inserted into the rectum.
If any barium residue remains in the intestine, it can potentially lead to constipation. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that patients maintain a high-fiber diet and stay well-hydrated by consuming an adequate amount of water after undergoing a barium examination until all the barium has been eliminated from the body.