A GI series is an x-ray exam of the esophagus and the stomach (upper GI series) and sometimes the small intestine (small bowel series). In order to see the intestinal tract on x-ray you will be asked to drink a mildly flavored barium liquid.
Why is a GI series performed?
A GI series can provide information about the upper gastrointestinal tract that will help diagnose certain diseases or conditions in patients that are experiencing swallowing difficulty, pain, heartburn/reflux, bleeding, anemia, or abdominal distress/discomfort.
What can I expect during a GI exam?
A radiologist and a technologist will be present. You will be asked to swallow a mildly flavored barium drink. The barium mixture fills your stomach and small intestine so that they can be seen on x-ray. You may also be asked to swallow "fizzies", a substance that makes air build up in your stomach. The radiologist will watch the images on a special x-ray monitor. Periodically, the radiologist will ask you to change your position or hold your breath so that films of different views may be taken.
How long will my GI exam take?
The exam of your esophagus and stomach may take up to 30 or 45 minutes.
An exam involving your small intestine may take longer than two hours. This is unpredictable since it depends on how fast the barium moves through the small intestine. We will take an x-ray every half hour to observe the movement of barium through the small intestine.
Is the GI exam safe?
Within the medical community there is general agreement that the benefits of performing the tests far outweigh the small amount of radiation associated with these studies.
Scientific advances allow for better images with lower doses of radiation. We continually upgrade our equipment to provide the latest technology and adhere to a strict monitoring and quality assurance program for all equipment.
Prior to any exam, please inform the staff if you are, or think you may be, pregnant.
Do I need a referral (prescription) to have my GI exam?
Yes, your doctor must provide a referral (prescription) for you to receive an exam. In addition, some insurance plans vary. Please verify your plan’s coverage prior to your scheduled appointment.
When will I know the results of my exam?
A detailed written report of the procedure will be sent to the referring physician within 24 hours. Your physician will contact you to discuss the results. Urgent results are telephoned immediately to your doctor who will discuss the results with you.
When can I eat and drink after the exam?
You may eat as soon as the exam is over. You should drink plenty of liquids to avoid constipation from the barium.
What should I do to prepare for a gastrointestinal (GI) series exam?
It is important that you do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your exam. Also, do not eat or drink the morning of your exam. If your stomach is not empty the study will not be satisfactory and may have to be postponed.
Essential medication may be taken with a sip of water. If you are diabetic, please consult your doctor before taking any medication on the morning of your exam.
