The evaluation of sonographic image resolution after barium upper G.I.T. examination

Abstract EN

-The presence of barium in the GIT after barium studies of the stomach & colon is thought to interfere with the performance of abdominal sonography.

This concept result in delay in diagnosis & scheduling in conveniences when both studies are indicated at the same time.

To determine if this belief is true, we prospectively obtained sonograms before & after biphasic upper GIT examination in 68 patients for 11 months period.

The 136 sonograms were randomized & interpreted by the author & blindly by other radiologist & we used a scale from 0-4 to rate the appearance of six anatomical areas (gall bladder, pancreas, aorta, porta hepatis & RT & LT lobes of the liver).

The results showed no degradation of the images of these structures on the sonograms obtained after the barium meal compared with the prebarium sonograms.

We concluded that barium doesn't interfere with sonography performed immediately after an upper GIT examination.

Consequently when both studies are needed, a sonogram can be scheduled after an upper GIT examination.