Barium Swallow
Barium Swallow - Related Videos
01:24
Upper GI Series: Barium Swallow
0 Views •
2025
The Barium Swallow Study, or a Barium Esophagogram, is a diagnostic imaging method used to visualize the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. It employs barium sulfate, a radiopaque contrast material, to provide clear images of the upper digestive system, helping to identify abnormalities, diseases, or structural issues. Purpose and Procedure Patients undergoing this procedure ingest a liquid containing barium sulfate with a chalky...
14:13
Coordinate Mapping of Hyolaryngeal Mechanics in Swallowing
0 Views •
Cited by 34 •
2014
Coordinate mapping is a method of documenting salient features of hyolaryngeal biomechanics in the pharyngeal phase of swallowing. This methodology uses image analysis software to record coordinates of anatomical landmarks. These coordinates are imported into an excel macro and translated into kinematic variables of interest useful in dysphagia research.
01:23
Lower GI Series: Barium Enema
0 Views •
2025
A Barium Enema, or a lower GI series, is a specialized radiographic examination designed to visualize the lower gastrointestinal tract, specifically the colon and rectum. This procedure is instrumental in diagnosing various conditions such as colorectal cancer, polyps, diverticulosis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Procedure Details The examination begins by inserting a lubricated rectal tube into the patient's rectum to administer a radiopaque barium solution. The barium flow is carefully...
08:32
Adapting Human Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study Methods to Detect and Characterize Dysphagia in Murine Disease Models
0 Views •
Cited by 53 •
2015
This study successfully adapted human videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) methods for use with murine disease models for the purpose of facilitating translational dysphagia research.
07:45
Minimally Invasive Murine Laryngoscopy for Close-Up Imaging of Laryngeal Motion During Breathing and Swallowing
0 Views •
2023
This protocol describes a serial transoral laryngoscopy approach for mice and rats that permits close-up, unobstructed video imaging of the larynx during breathing and swallowing using an optimized anesthetic regimen and finely tuned endoscopic manipulation techniques.
FAQs
Barium sulfate coats the mucosal surfaces of the pharynx and esophagus and absorbs X-rays. This contrast effect makes the lining and the passage of swallowed material more visible than they would be on an unenhanced image. As a result, clinicians can assess both structural contours and the movement of contrast through the upper gastrointestinal tract.
Continuous or timed radiographs capture different aspects of swallowing and contrast transit. Continuous imaging can show movement as swallowing occurs, while timed images document how the contrast progresses through the digestive tract. Combining these observations helps clinicians evaluate swallowing function and identify abnormalities that may affect passage through the pharynx or esophagus.
The examination can demonstrate structural changes such as esophageal rings, diverticula, strictures, obstructive lesions, and other abnormalities of the pharynx or esophagus. The way contrast moves may also provide evidence relevant to swallowing disorders or reflux. These findings give clinicians anatomical and functional information within a single fluoroscopic assessment.
During the study, the patient drinks a suspension containing barium sulfate while fluoroscopic imaging is performed. Radiographs are obtained continuously or at selected times to follow the contrast as it coats the upper gastrointestinal tract and moves through it. The resulting images allow clinicians to examine swallowing function alongside the visible structure of the pharynx and esophagus.
Clinicians may use a barium swallow when symptoms or clinical concerns suggest dysphagia, a stricture, an obstructive lesion, reflux, or a structural abnormality. The examination is particularly relevant when both swallowing behavior and the anatomy of the pharynx or esophagus need evaluation. Its findings can support decisions about further assessment and treatment planning.
Results can clarify whether an observed problem is associated with swallowing function, altered anatomy, or contrast passage through the upper gastrointestinal tract. Identifying findings such as rings, diverticula, strictures, obstructive lesions, or reflux can guide further evaluation. In clinical practice, this information also contributes to treatment planning and assessment of swallowing disorders.