Main content Upper Gastrointestinal (UGI) Series

    Upper Gastrointestinal (UGI) Series



    Risks

    Barium does not move into the blood, so Reference allergic reactions Opens New Window are very rare.

    Some people gag while drinking the barium fluid. In rare cases, a person may choke and inhale (aspirate) some of the liquid into the lungs.

    There is a small chance that the barium will block the intestine or leak into the belly through a perforated ulcer. A special type of contrast material (Gastrografin) can be used if you have a blockage or an ulcer.

    There is always a small chance of damage to cells or tissue from being exposed to any radiation, even the low level of radiation used for this test.




    By: Reference Healthwise Staff Last Revised: Reference March 7, 2012
    Medical Review: Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
    Reference Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology


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