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Stomach X-Ray
Purpose
The purpose of the stomach x-ray with double contrast material is to check for possible ulcers, inflammatory processes, tumors and to find the source of bleeding in the esophagus, the stomach and the mucous lining of the duodenum. With a carefully executed examination process and with the body placed in various positions, reflux may be diagnosed or eliminated. In a few cases, gastroscopy may also be indicated for biopsy or an unequivocal diagnosis.
Are any preparations required prior to the examination?
The examinations should, preferably, be done in the early morning hours, since the stomach must be empty. No smoking is allowed prior to the examination. Patients should bring their morning medications with them in order to take them as soon as the examination is over.
What does the procedure entail?
At the start, a chest x-ray and a regular x-ray of the stomach with no contrast material is prepared. Following this, the patient is first given CO2 gas producing granules to drink down with a few swallows of water, then a small amount of barium-sulphate contrast material is to be ingested under constant supervision. Once these preparations are completed, x-ray images are prepared with the patient in the upright and the prone positions, turning and changing positions, as indicated by the technician.
Contraindications
Since this procedure requires the patient's complete cooperation, elderly patients are sometimes not capable of following and completing the instructions.
