X-ray of the stomach using barium sulphate is called contrast radiography. Barium is a fluid that does not pass X-rays. This method of research shows:
- condition of the mucous membrane of the organ;
- shape and size of the stomach;
- relief of the edges;
- the state of sphincters - valves, which regulate the withdrawal of contents from one organ to another;
- shadows in the lumen of the stomach;
- defects of filling with an ulcer;
- the contrast distribution between the folds of the gastric shell;
- the integrity of the walls of the stomach;
- work of different parts of the stomach.
X-ray with barium is the most preferred way to investigate abnormalities in the digestive tract.
Preparation for a roentgen of a stomach with a barium
Preparation for the procedure for the study of stomach pathologies is as follows:
1. A few days before X-rays, adhere to a certain diet to reduce gas formation in the gastrointestinal tract. It is prescribed to exclude from the food ration such products that cause fermentation and gas formation:
- baking and sweets;
- dairy;
- beans;
- Rye bread;
- cabbage;
- carbonated drinks.
2. To include in the daily ration:
- low-fat meat;
- eggs;
- fish;
- porridge on the water.
3. If the patient has constipation - on the eve of the evening and on the day of the procedure, make a cleansing enema , and also, if necessary, wash the stomach.
Contraindications of barium for X-ray of the stomach
Barium sulphate is practically non-toxic and has almost no effect on the human body. It has no property to be absorbed from the digestive tract and does not have a systemic effect. However, there are contraindications to the use of this fluid orally:
- individual intolerance to the drug;
- broken integrity of the walls of the stomach;
- esophagotracheal fistulas;
- early postoperative period;
- tachycardia, heart failure;
- pregnancy;
- the period of breastfeeding;
- malabsorption syndrome;
- difficulty swallowing act;
- intestinal obstruction (acute or chronic);
- intestinal bleeding.
It is necessary to carry out the procedure with care when:
- bronchial asthma;
- pronounced cachexia - exhaustion of the body.
The effects of x-ray of the stomach with barium
On the question of whether the x-ray of the stomach with barium is harmful, we can say that in the vast majority of cases the procedure goes without any complications or consequences. Only in very rare cases can there be such side effects:
- feeling of heaviness in the upper abdomen;
- bloating;
- constipation;
- appendicitis.