upper gastrointestinal (GI) series

A procedure that uses x-rays to produce a series of images of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract, including the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. A barium swallow or barium meal is used to coat the upper GI tract with a contrast medium. The contrast medium (barium sulphate) makes organs and structures show up clearly on the x-ray image.

Doctors use an upper GI series to look for tumours, polyps, blockages or other signs of disease.