Fluoroscopy | Ontario | Ontario Diagnostic Centres

Upper gastrointestinal tract radiography or upper GI uses a form of real-time x-ray called fluoroscopy and a barium-based contrast material to produce images of the esophagus, stomach and small intestine. It is safe, noninvasive, and may be used to help accurately diagnose pain, acid reflux and other symptoms.

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What are some common uses of the procedure?

An upper GI examination helps evaluate digestive function and can detect:

• ulcers

• tumors

• inflammation of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum

• hiatal hernias

• scarring

• blockages

• abnormalities of the muscular wall of GI tract

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The procedure is also used to help diagnose the cause of symptoms such as:

• difficulty swallowing

• chest and abdominal pain

• reflux (a backward flow of partially digested food and digestive juices)

• unexplained vomiting

• severe indigestion

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