Contrast of the GIT 2

Question 1

What are some common adverse effects of barium sulphate preparations?

Answer 1

Formation of barolith.

Retention of barium in the colon.

Aggravation of toxic dilatation of the colon.

Leakage of barium into the peritoneal cavity.

Extraperitoneal leakage of barium.

Aspiration of barium into the bronchial tree.

Intravasation of barium suspension.

Allergic reactions to barium preparations

Question 2

What is Gastrograffin used for in GIT examinations?

Answer 2

• It is used when there is suspected esophageal leakage due to perforation.

Question 3

Why is Gastrograffin not as detailed as barium?

Answer 3

Because it may lead to the possibility of missing esophageal lesions.

Question 4

When is Gastrograffin indicated?

Answer 4

Suspected perforation.

Suspected fistula.

History of recent biopsy.

Suspected lower intestinal obstruction.

Corrosive poisoning.

Meconium ileus/plug syndrome.

Immediate post-operation status

Question 5

What is the main problem of using Gastrograffin as a contrast agent?

Answer 5

If there is any risk of aspiration into the bronchial tree, it can cause a very severe form of chemical pneumonitis and consequent acute pulmonary oedema.

Question 6

What should be used instead of Gastrograffin if there is a risk of aspiration?

Answer 6

A non-ionic water-soluble contrast media such as Gastromiro, which causes no inflammatory changes in the lung parenchyma.

Question 7

Why is barium sulphate (BaSO4) the contrast media of choice for GIT studies?

Answer 7

Because of its high atomic number (56), making it highly radiopaque, and it is non-toxic in the GIT.

Question 8

When is Gastrograffin used in GIT examinations?

Answer 8

When there is suspected esophageal leakage due to perforation.