Name of the Procedure:

Radiologic examination, gastrointestinal tract, upper; with small intestine, includes multiple serial images

• Common Names: Upper GI Series with Small Bowel Follow-Through (SBFT), Upper Gastrointestinal X-ray with Small Bowel Series

Summary

This procedure involves an X-ray examination of the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract, specifically including the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. It uses a contrast material that enhances the visibility of these organs on the X-ray images. Multiple serial images are taken to follow the passage of the contrast material through the small intestine.

Purpose

The procedure is used to diagnose issues within the upper gastrointestinal tract, such as ulcers, tumors, inflammation, blockages, or other abnormalities. The goal is to provide clear, detailed images that help in identifying these conditions and guiding treatment plans.

Indications

• Persistent nausea or vomiting
• Unexplained abdominal pain
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Suspected gastrointestinal bleeding
• Chronic diarrhea or constipation
• Unexplained weight loss
• Suspected Crohn's disease or other inflammatory bowel conditions

Preparation

• Fasting for 8 to 12 hours before the procedure
• Avoiding certain medications as instructed by your doctor
• Informing your doctor of any allergies, particularly to contrast materials
• Completing any consent forms and addressing pre-procedure diagnostic tests, if needed

Procedure Description

1. The patient drinks a barium contrast solution.
2. X-rays are taken as the contrast material moves through the upper gastrointestinal tract and small intestine.
3. Multiple serial images are captured at specific intervals to monitor the progress of the barium.
4. The procedure typically doesn’t require anesthesia, and the patient will be asked to move into different positions to get comprehensive images.
5. A radiologist oversees the procedure, ensuring optimal imaging and patient comfort.

Duration

Approximately 2 to 6 hours, depending on how quickly the contrast material moves through the small intestine.

Setting

Performed in a hospital radiology department or a specialized outpatient imaging center.

Personnel

• Radiologist (oversees the procedure and interprets the images)
• Radiologic technologist (operates imaging equipment and assists the patient)

Risks and Complications

• Rare allergic reactions to the contrast material
• Constipation or impaction from the barium
• Extremely rare risk of bowel perforation
• Mild discomfort or bloating

Benefits

• Non-invasive imaging that provides detailed views of the upper gastrointestinal tract and small intestine
• Helps in accurate diagnosis and formulation of appropriate treatment plans
• Results are typically available within a few days

Recovery

• Normal activities can usually be resumed immediately after the procedure
• Drink plenty of fluids to help clear the barium from your system
• Stool may appear white or lighter in color for a few days
• Follow any specific post-procedure instructions provided by your healthcare provider

Alternatives

• Upper endoscopy (more invasive but provides direct visualization and potential for biopsies)
• CT enterography (provides cross-sectional images and might involve intravenous contrast material)
• MRI enterography (non-radiation imaging alternative)

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient might feel some discomfort or a sense of fullness from drinking the barium contrast. After the procedure, there could be mild bloating or constipation. Pain management is typically unnecessary, but over-the-counter remedies can be used for constipation if advised by the physician.