Treatment

Upper GI Series

Overview

The Upper GI Series (also called UGI Series or Upper Gastrointestinal Series) is a special X-ray test that helps doctors see the inside of your upper digestive system—mainly your esophagus, stomach, and the beginning of your small intestine. It uses a substance called barium and a moving X-ray method called fluoroscopy to take clear images of these organs. This test helps find problems like ulcers, blockages, or tumors.

Why Upper GI Series is Required?

• To investigate ongoing digestive problems such as nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain.
• If you have trouble swallowing, it helps find out the reason.
• To look for ulcers, hernias, or tumors in the upper GI tract.
• Helps in diagnosing acid reflux, esophageal strictures, or motility disorders.
• To find signs of bleeding, infection, or inflammation in the upper GI system.
• It can be done when endoscopy is not possible or to get a different type of view.

Key Advantages of Upper GI Series Treatment

• Non-invasive test with no surgery involved.
• Quick results using fluoroscopy and barium contrast.
• Provides a detailed view of the upper GI organs.
• Helps detect blockages, growths, ulcers, and tumors.
• Can be used for both diagnosis and monitoring of existing conditions.
• Useful for checking structural abnormalities.
• Often safer for people who cannot tolerate other GI tests.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Upper GI Series Treatment

• Avoid eating or drinking for about 8 hours before the test.
• Tell your doctor about any medications or allergies.
• Inform the team if you are pregnant or suspect pregnancy.
• You might be asked to stop smoking temporarily, as it affects the stomach lining.
• Remove any metal objects or jewelry before the test.
• Follow all specific instructions your doctor provides for best test results.

How Upper GI Series Treatment is Performed?

• You will be asked to swallow a barium solution that coats the lining of your upper GI organs.
• The doctor uses fluoroscopy, a moving X-ray, to capture images as you swallow and move.
• You may be asked to stand, sit, or lie down in different positions.
• Sometimes, air crystals are given to improve visibility (this creates a “double contrast”).
• The whole procedure usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
• After the test, you can usually go home the same day.

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

• Before the Procedure
• Fasting (no food or drink) as instructed.
• You will change into a hospital gown.
• A technician may explain the procedure to reduce anxiety.
• During the Procedure
• You will drink barium liquid.
• Multiple X-rays are taken while you move into different positions.
• You might feel fullness or slight discomfort.
• After the Procedure
• You may experience white-colored stools for a few days (due to barium).
• Drink plenty of water to flush out the barium.
• Mild constipation may occur; inform your doctor if it lasts.
• You can return to normal activity unless advised otherwise.

Risk and Potential Complications

• Constipation is the most common side effect.
• Rarely, barium impaction may occur if you don’t drink enough fluids.
• Mild allergic reactions to ingredients are possible.
• Rare complications if aspiration happens while swallowing barium.
• Radiation exposure is minimal but important to discuss if pregnant.
• Not suitable for people with severe swallowing difficulties without precaution.

Results/Outcomes

• Helps detect conditions like ulcers, strictures, cancers, hiatal hernia, and reflux.
• Can identify abnormalities in the shape, lining, or movement of upper GI organs.
• Results are interpreted by a radiologist and shared with your doctor.
• May help decide next steps like endoscopy, medications, or surgery if needed.