What is an uppergastrointestinal (UGI) test?
An upper gastrointestinal (UGI) test uses X-rays to take pictures of the stomach and small bowel. The test helps to see how well these organs are working.
Before the procedure
Before you and your child come to the hospital for your test, you need to start getting ready at home.
If your child is under the age of 3, don't let him eat or drink anything 4 hours before your test. If your child is older than 3, don't let him eat or drink anything after midnight the night before their exam.
Learn more about how to prepare for a medical imaging procedure.
During the UGI
UGIs use a big camera to take pictures. Children are encouraged to bring their favorite stuffed animal or blanket with them on the day of the test. A technologist will come and get you and your child and bring you into a room that has a artwork on the floor outside.
Your child will change into a gown. One parent is encouraged to stay with the child. Your child will be asked to lie down on a bed. Then the radiologist will come in and your child will have to drink a liquid called barium. This helps the radiologist see the stomach and throat better. After drinking it, the radiologist will help your child turn as they lie on the table. They will also have to turn to one side, then the other and maybe on their belly as well. It is important to hold very still when the camera takes the picture.
After the radiologist leaves, a small bowel follow-through might need to be done. If so, the technologist will have to take more pictures every once and awhile (usually 15 to 30 minutes). Your child can either stay in the room with you or you both can wait in the waiting area. The technologist will show these pictures to the radiologist and assess the barium as it goes all the way through your child's body. When it is time, your child will come back in the room and the radiologist will take a few more pictures.
After the test
After the test is over, your child can go into the bathroom and clean up. Then he can get dressed and go home. It is important to have your child drink a lot since this will help get the barium get out of the body. Water, juices and Kool-Aid work best.
Technology/Scanners used
X-ray