X-ray - Barium Meal Follow Through

The X-ray – Barium Meal Follow Through is a specialized diagnostic imaging procedure used to examine the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract, including the stomach and small intestine. In this test, the patient drinks a barium-containing liquid, which coats the lining of the digestive tract and makes it visible on X-ray images.

After ingestion, a series of X-rays are taken at intervals to follow the movement of barium as it passes from the stomach into the small intestine. This allows detailed assessment of the structure, function, and motility of the small bowel.

This test is commonly used to detect abnormalities such as strictures, ulcers, tumors, inflammation, malabsorption conditions, and intestinal obstruction. It is particularly helpful in evaluating conditions like Crohn’s disease and other small bowel disorders.

The procedure may take several hours depending on how quickly the barium moves through the digestive system. It is non-invasive and provides valuable information for diagnosis and treatment planning.

This test is recommended for individuals with symptoms related to the digestive system.

It is advised in the following cases:

• Persistent abdominal pain
• Chronic diarrhea or constipation
• Suspected small bowel disease
• Unexplained weight loss
• Suspected intestinal obstruction
• Malabsorption symptoms
• Follow-up evaluation of GI conditions