Contrast Agent Study 2: Upper GI

What is the definition and purpose for an UGI exam?

A radiographic exam of the distal esophagus, stomach, and duodenum and the purpose is to study radiographically the form and function of the distal esophagus, stomach, and duodenum and to detect abnormal anatomic and functional conditions

When might the use of barium sulfate for an Upper GI exam be contraindicated?

• when the patient has a history of bowel perforation

• when the patient has a history of a laceration or rupture of the viscus

Which condition or disease appear on the radiograph as an out pouching of the mesoscale wall?

Diverticula 

How would you describe the possible radiographic appearance of Gastritis during a double-contrast Upper GI?

Absence of rugae, thin gastric wall, “speckles” appearance of mucosa 

What statement is true regarding patient prep for an Upper GI series?

• the patient should be NPO from midnight until the time of the exam scheduled in the morning 

• food and fluids should be withheld for at least 8 hours before the exam 

T or F: smoking cigarettes or chewing gum tend other increase gastric secretions and salivation, which prevents proper coating of barium to the gastric mucosa. (This is why the patient is instructed not to do these things during the NPO period)

True 

What is true regarding an UGI exam and pregnancy precautions is true?

These exams should be performed on pregnant women only when absolutely necessary 

General duties of the technologist during an Upper GI fluoroscopy exam may include:

• following the radiologist’s instructions 

• assisting the patient as needed 

• expedite the procedure in any possible manner 

T or F: The fluoroscopic routine followed by radiologist may vary greatly but usually begins with the patient in the recumbent position

False

What are some specific things that a technologist might help the patient with during an Upper GI exam?

• the barium cup 

• provided a pillow

• keeping the patient covered at all times

The RAO position allows barium to migrate toward the _______ portion or distal stomach, whereas any air in the stomach shifts towards the ________

Pyloric, fundus

T or F: With digital fluoroscopy, routine post-fluoroscopy overhead radiographs may not be requested by the radiologist 

True 

What guidelines are suggested for pediatric patient preparation for an infant younger than 1 year?

NPO for 4 hours

T or F: Dilution of the barium and a larger hold in the nipple may be required if the child will be fed through a bottle

True 

What are some suggested barium volume guidelines for a newborn to 1 year undergoing an UGI exam? (but always follow hospital protocol)

2-4 ounces

T or F: The risk of dehydration during a GI study can be a concern for geriatric patients and the use of a water-soluble contrast agent may decrease the risk of dehydration further

False

T or F: When considering the body habits of the patient, typically, the stomach is high and transverse with hypersthenic patients 

True 

Water-soluble contrast studies of the Upper GI often require a kV range of:

80-90

Tumor and vascular disease of the liver and esophageal varicose. an be demonstrated well with this alternative modality:

MRI

What the considered routine projections for an UGI?

• RAO (recumbent)

• PA (recumbent)

• Right lateral (recumbent)