This exam evaluates the small bowel for inflammation, bleeding and certain tumors. Barium is used to coat the bowel.

Preparation for the Exam

1. Nothing to eat or drink (except medications with a small amount of water) on the following schedule, depending on the child's age:
   • 0 to 2 months: nothing by mouth two hours prior to exam
   • 3 to 11 months: nothing by mouth three hours prior to exam
   • 1 to 4 years: nothing by mouth four hours prior to exam
   • 5 to 18 years: nothing by mouth eight hours prior to exam
2. Bring a bottle if the child is bottle feeding or a sippy cup if he or she uses one.
3. If the upper GI is through a G-tube or J-tube, bring a feeding tube attachment. No tube feedings based on above schedule.

During the Exam
Parents are usually allowed to stay in the X-ray room during the test. A pediatric technologist will discuss the procedure with children who are old enough to communicate. Age-appropriate language will be used to explain the exam.

Imaging is performed using fluoroscopy and plain films, and your child will be rolled into different positions for the images. Then the tube will be removed. This exam usually takes about 45 minutes to 3-1/2 hours.

After the Exam

Your child’s stool may appear to be whitish in color for 48 hours to a week due to the barium. Encourage your child to drink fluids after the exam to allow his stool to return to normal within a short time.