Barium Swallow

http://info.med.yale.edu/surgery/anatomy/radiology/barium_swallow_1_content.php

SLIDE 1
Goals
1. To understand how barium and air can be used as contrast agents in the upper GI tract
2. Identify normal anatomic impressions on the esophagus and relationship to chambers of the heart to the surface anatomy of the thorax
3. Relate the surface anatomy such as the angle of Louis and various vertebrae and how they relate to the position of the esophagus and the GI junction
4. Understand which portions of the stomach (fundus, body, antrum) and duodenum will pool barium in prone, supine and upright positions
5. Appreciate the different fold patters of the stomach, duodenum, and jejunum

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Barium Swallow vs Upper GI Series

What is Upper Gastrointestinal (GI) Tract Radiography?
Also called an upper gastrointestinal (GI) series or simply an upper GI, upper gastrointestinal tract radiography is an x-ray examination of the esophagus, stomach and first part of the small intestine. However, in order for the anatomy to show up on radiographic images, the upper gastrointestinal tract must be coated or filled with a contrast material called barium, an element that appears bright white on radiographs. The barium is given to the patient to drink. This procedure is called upper gastrointestinal tract radiography when the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum are evaluated, or a barium swallow when only the pharynx and esophagus are evaluated. Additionally, some patients are asked to swallow baking-soda crystals to create gas and further improve the images; this procedure has the modified name of air-contrast or double-contrast upper GI.

source: http://www.fmh.org/body.cfm?id=181

Barium swallow demonstrating achalasia

Barium Swallow

Esophageal varices

Esophageal varices as seen on barium swallow [mentioned by dr. managi in radiology elective]

http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/367986-imaging