barium swallow; modified barium swallow study; barium esophagraphy (BSS, MBSS)

Indications: 1) esophageal disorders, structural & motor 2) video esophagography is needed for assessment of oral & pharyngeal function Monitor: Observe for: 1) stasis of barium in the valleculae & piriform sinuses (pharynx) 2) regurgitation of barium into the nose & tracheobroncheal tree 3) spontaneous reflux of barium from the stomach into the esophagus 4) esophageal peristalsis (done with patient recumbent to minimize help from gravity)

References

Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 14th ed. Fauci et al (eds), McGraw-Hill Inc. NY, 1998, pg 1589