Pharynx and Oesophagus radiology
A pharynx and oesophageal radiology, under fluoroscopy, is a simple, painless procedure that observes your esophageal function in real time. It is usually prescribed if you have difficulty swallowing or suffer from abdominal pain, vomiting, heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux.
Examination procedure
For this procedure, you will be asked to:
- Wear a hospital gown and remove your jewelry and any object that might adversely affect image quality
- Drink a small amount of barium (an opaque liquid with a hint of vanilla or strawberry flavour)
- Adopt various positions (standing or lying face up or face down) to ensure a clear view of all your organs
Please note that the total duration of your visit for this examination can be between 30 and 60 minutes, even though the examination procedure itself will only last between 5 and 20 minutes.
Specificities and Contraindications
- It is important to note that if you are (or think you are) pregnant, you must not undergo this examination.
- If you are diabetic, allergic to the contrast agents, or if you have food allergies, you must inform the technologist.
Preparing for the Examination (for adults)
To properly prepare for the examination, please follow the procedure below:
- If your appointment is in the morning, no solid food should be eaten after 8:00 p.m. the evening before the exam. However, you may drink water until midnight. If your appointment is in the afternoon, you must adhere to an 8 hour fast.
- On the day of the examination, you should be fasting. You should not smoke or chew gum.
- If you need to take any medicine, it should be taken after your test.
A medical prescription is required to perform this examination.
The costs of this examination are covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) when prescribed by a physician*.
If your health care professional has requested this test or you have any questions, feel free to contact us at 1 833 590-2715.