Overview

The Upper GI Series (also called UGI Series or Upper Gastrointestinal Series) is a special X-ray test that helps doctors see the inside of your upper digestive system—mainly your esophagus, stomach, and the beginning of your small intestine. It uses a substance called barium and a moving X-ray method called fluoroscopy to take clear images of these organs. This test helps find problems like ulcers, blockages, or tumors.

Why Upper GI Series is Required?

To investigate ongoing digestive problems such as nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain.

If you have trouble swallowing, it helps find out the reason.

To look for ulcers, hernias, or tumors in the upper GI tract.

Helps in diagnosing acid reflux, esophageal strictures, or motility disorders.

To find signs of bleeding, infection, or inflammation in the upper GI system.

It can be done when endoscopy is not possible or to get a different type of view.

Key Advantages of Upper GI Series Treatment

Non-invasive test with no surgery involved.

Quick results using fluoroscopy and barium contrast.

Provides a detailed view of the upper GI organs.

Helps detect blockages, growths, ulcers, and tumors.

Can be used for both diagnosis and monitoring of existing conditions.

Useful for checking structural abnormalities.

Often safer for people who cannot tolerate other GI tests.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Upper GI Series Treatment

Avoid eating or drinking for about 8 hours before the test.

Tell your doctor about any medications or allergies.

Inform the team if you are pregnant or suspect pregnancy.

You might be asked to stop smoking temporarily, as it affects the stomach lining.

Remove any metal objects or jewelry before the test.

Follow all specific instructions your doctor provides for best test results.

How Upper GI Series Treatment is Performed?

You will be asked to swallow a barium solution that coats the lining of your upper GI organs.

The doctor uses fluoroscopy, a moving X-ray, to capture images as you swallow and move.

You may be asked to stand, sit, or lie down in different positions.

Sometimes, air crystals are given to improve visibility (this creates a "double contrast").

The whole procedure usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

After the test, you can usually go home the same day.

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

1. Before the Procedure

Fasting (no food or drink) as instructed.

You will change into a hospital gown.

A technician may explain the procedure to reduce anxiety.

2. During the Procedure

You will drink barium liquid.

Multiple X-rays are taken while you move into different positions.

You might feel fullness or slight discomfort.

3. After the Procedure

You may experience white-colored stools for a few days (due to barium).

Drink plenty of water to flush out the barium.

Mild constipation may occur; inform your doctor if it lasts.

You can return to normal activity unless advised otherwise.

Risk and Potential Complications

Constipation is the most common side effect.

Rarely, barium impaction may occur if you don’t drink enough fluids.

Mild allergic reactions to ingredients are possible.

Rare complications if aspiration happens while swallowing barium.

Radiation exposure is minimal but important to discuss if pregnant.

Not suitable for people with severe swallowing difficulties without precaution.

Results/Outcomes

Helps detect conditions like ulcers, strictures, cancers, hiatal hernia, and reflux.

Can identify abnormalities in the shape, lining, or movement of upper GI organs.

Results are interpreted by a radiologist and shared with your doctor.

May help decide next steps like endoscopy, medications, or surgery if needed.