Module 4 - Exams of the GI System Flashcards
What contrast agent is commonly used for GI studies due to its radiopacity and safety?
Barium Sulphate
What type of contrast appears black on radiographic images?
Negative contrast (e.g., air)
What is a key contraindication for using barium in a GI study?
Suspected bowel or esophageal perforation
What water-soluble contrast agents are used when barium is contraindicated?
Gastrografin or Hexabrix
What does NPO mean in preparation for a GI study?
Nothing by mouth (no food or fluids)
Why must patients be NPO before a UGI or SBFT?
To prevent image distortion and allow proper barium adhesion
What dietary preparation is required for an SBFT?
Low-residue diet for 2 days and NPO after evening meal
What position helps move the esophagus off the spine in a UGI study?
LPO (Left Posterior Oblique)
What is the purpose of gas pills in a UGI exam?
To expand the stomach for better visualization
What is the first radiographic position typically taken in an SBFT?
Supine (15 minutes post barium ingestion)
What is a key step after a barium enema to relieve internal pressure?
Siphoning barium back into the enema bag
What complication can result from aspirated barium?
Aspiration pneumonia
What can occur if barium enters the peritoneal cavity through a perforation?
Barium peritonitis
What are patients advised to do after a GI contrast study to prevent constipation?
Drink plenty of water
How far should a rectal tube be inserted during a barium enema?
3–4 inches in an anterior-superior direction
What position is used for rectal tube insertion?
Sims (LAO) position
What is the suggested height range for a barium enema bag?
24–30 inches above the table
What is the radiographic appearance of barium on images?
White (radiopaque)
What is a common side effect of Buscopan used during a barium enema?
Temporary blurry vision
What is the radiologic purpose of using a double contrast enema?
To outline the inner surface of the colon with barium and air
What radiographic projection best demonstrates barium in the fundus during a UGI?
AP (supine)
What projection is also called the ‘GI position’ for optimal gastric peristalsis?
RAO (Right Anterior Oblique)
In an SBFT, what position improves image quality by compressing the abdomen?
Prone position
What is the purpose of using a retention cuff during a barium enema?
To hold the rectal tube in place
What contrast media concentration is used for SBFT to allow x-ray penetration?
Low-density barium (13–15% W/V)
What helps speed up barium transit during an SBFT for patients with slow GI motility?
Cold barium, iced water, Gastrografin, tea/coffee, or walking
What must be done if a patient shows repeated resistance or pain during rectal tube insertion?
Stop and notify the radiologist
What still image is used in a UGI to visualize air in the fundus and barium in the body?
PA projection
What are common clinical indications for a barium enema?
Diverticular disease, IBD, colon cancer screening, incomplete colonoscopy
What is the appearance of air on a radiographic image?
Black (radiolucent)
What are contraindications for a barium enema?
Acute bowel condition, pregnancy, suspected perforation, recent radiation therapy
What is the key purpose of patient bowel prep for a barium enema?
To ensure diagnostic image quality and prevent misdiagnosis
What fluoroscopic tool is used to separate bowel loops during SBFT terminal ileum imaging?
Compression paddle
What should patients inform technologists about if they recently had a barium study?
That they ingested barium (to avoid imaging artifacts in other exams)
What is the name of the procedure where barium is infused via nasogastric tube to the duodenum?
Enteroclysis
What is the main reason barium should not be used in cases of suspected perforation?
It is not absorbed by the body and may cause peritonitis
What is the radiographic appearance of the colon after draining barium in a double contrast enema?
Thin residual coating of barium on the colon wall
What type of barium is required for a double contrast enema?
Thick, high-density barium for mucosal coating
What is the expected appearance of stool after a barium study?
Chalky white
What should technologists check regarding enema tip placement before inflation?
That the tip is correctly inserted 3–4 inches and not causing discomfort
