Lower intestinal tract radiography, also called a lower GI or barium enema exam, uses fluoroscopy and contrast material to examine the large intestine, or colon. A speech pathologist, a specialist who treats communication and swallowing problems, is often involved in the exam. This is performed for patients with feeding difficulties or those who may have food or liquid in their lungs. anatomical problems such as intestinal malrotation (a twisting of a baby's intestine).Īn x-ray exam that evaluates only the pharynx and esophagus is called a barium swallow.abnormalities of the muscular wall of GI tract.inflammation of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum.reflux, a backward flow of stomach acid into the lower end of the esophagus.When the upper GI tract is coated with barium, the radiologist can view and assess the anatomy and function of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum.Īn upper GI exam helps evaluate digestive function and can detect: A special form of x-ray called fluoroscopy and a swallowed contrast material such as barium are used to produce the images.įluoroscopy uses x-rays to see internal organs in motion. Upper gastrointestinal tract radiography, also called an upper GI exam, looks at the esophagus, stomach and first part of the small intestine (duodenum). X-rays use contrast material to help diagnose a variety of conditions in both the upper and lower intestinal tract. metabolic and endocrine disorders that cause bone defects of the skull.However, skull x-rays are still helpful for detecting fractures and other conditions, such as: Skull x-rays have largely been replaced with newer technologies such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). the location of foreign objects in soft tissues around or in bones.abnormal bone growths and bony changes seen in metabolic conditions.In the pelvic region, x-rays can help detect tumors, evaluate for stones in the urinary tract and assess pelvic bone disease.īone x-rays are used to diagnose fractures or dislocations and guide surgeries such as spine repair/fusion. perforation of the stomach or intestine.It may be used to evaluate unexplained nausea and vomiting. foreign bodies that have been swallowed or inhaled.Ībdominal x-ray is often the first exam used to evaluate the source of acute pain in the abdominal region and/or lower back.Chest x-ray is the most commonly used imaging exam for evaluating the chest. It is often the first type of imaging used to identify sources of pain, evaluate traumatic injuries, and locate a foreign body. X-ray exams are used to help diagnose a wide variety of injuries and illnesses in children. What are some common uses of the procedure?