Barium esophagram

In this X-ray study, the structure and function of the esophagus are evaluated. It is usually the first test used in patients who are reporting difficulty swallowing, which may be a sign of complications resulting from chronic GERD. The patient swallows a white chalky substance, which coats the esophagus and reveals structural abnormalities when the X-ray is performed. The test might take about an hour and generally produces no side effects.

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A barium esophagram is very effective at diagnosing a stricture or other causes of obstruction in the esophagus. It's also used to spot a hiatal hernia and permits the evaluation of esophageal motor function. However, it is a poor test for documenting inflammation of the esophagus, and it's unreliable in detecting reflux.