General Radiology (X-ray) captures images of the body, including the chest, abdomen, extremities and head. Some exams require preparation or fasting, and contrast dye is used with certain exams to enhance organ visibility.
Upper Gastrointestinal Series (UGI)
UGI X-ray examines the esophagus and stomach. You should not eat or drink after midnight the night before the exam. At the hospital, you will be given a barium contrast agent to drink. This has the taste and consistency of milk of magnesia. The exam typically takes less than an hour.
X-Ray Barium Enema
A barium enema is used to evaluate the lower GI tract. A bowel-cleansing prep is administered the day before the procedure to permit clearer images of the large bowel and surrounding tissues. The procedure may cause discomfort, but it is not painful. The radiologist will examine and take images of the flow of barium. The patient will be asked to move to several different positions.
Frequently Asked Questions