Small Bowel Follow Through
Upper GI and Small Bowel Series
How is the procedure performed?
How the Test is Performed?
Before the x-rays are taken, you must drink 16 – 20 ounces of a milkshake-like drink that contains a substance called barium, which shows up well on x-rays.
An x-ray method called fluoroscopy tracks how the barium moves through your esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. Pictures are taken with you in a variety of positions. You may be sitting or standing.
The test usually takes around 3 hours. However, in some cases, it may take up to 6 hours to complete.
How to Prepare for the Test?
Usually, you cannot eat for a period of time before the test. You will be asked to remove all jewelry on your neck, chest, or abdomen before the test.
How the Test Will Feel
Why the Test is Performed?
What Abnormal Results Mean?
In the esophagus, abnormal results may mean one of the following:
▪ Achalasia
▪ Diverticula
▪ Esophageal abnormalities
▪ Hiatal hernias
▪ Ulcers
In the stomach, abnormal results may mean:
▪ Gastric cancer
▪ Gastric ulcers- benign
▪ Gastritis
▪ Polyps
▪ Pyloric stenosis (narrowing)
In the small intestines, the test may reveal:
▪ Malabsorption syndrome
▪ Swelling and irritation of the small intestines
▪ Tumors
▪ Ulcers
