Upper GI, Adult
What is an Upper GI?
If you or a member of your family is scheduled for an upper GI (UGI) examination,
the following information may be helpful to you. An upper GI is an x-ray
examination of the esophagus and stomach and small bowel.
It involves drinking a liquid called barium, which coats the inside of your
stomach and esophagus and enables our physician, the radiologist, to examine
these structures.
What happens during this procedure?
During the procedure, you may be asked to swallow a small amount of fizzing
granules with water. You may also be asked to drink both thin and thick
barium. By doing this, the radiologist can better visualize the internal
structure of your organs.
How long will this procedure
take?
The procedure will last approximately 20 minutes. The results of the test
will be available to your physician the following day.Although we strive to keep a strict schedule, it is not always possible
since the time required to perform each examination can vary according to
the patient's condition and the procedure ordered. Also, emergencies sometimes
arise that require immediate attention. We will make every effort to perform
your examination in a timely manner. You may wish to allow extra time in
your schedule for possible waiting.
Are there any special instructions I need to follow?
If you are pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, tell the technologist
before your test begins. The test will be done in Radiology , located in
the main hospital on level B-1. Your physician or his assistant may have
given you instruction for preparing for this exam. If they did not, please
contact the clinic and ask for the preparation instructions for an upper
GI examination.
If you have any additional questions or concerns about this procedure,
you may call GI Radiology directly
at 734-936-4512 between the hours of
8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
U-M Health System Related Sites:
Department
of Internal Medicine Division of Gastroenterology
Other Related Web Sites:
NIDDK
Diagnostic Tests - Upper GI
Your
Digestive System and How it Works
