An Esophagram is an inspection of the esophagus. The test is conducted as a part of a series of tests carried out on the upper and the middle regions of the GI tract. This test is performed using fluoroscopy, barium, and x-rays. Since barium is a contrast material, it is used as a marker. The patient is asked to swallow the barium with water, and as the barium travels down the esophageal passage, the path is mapped.

In some cases, a few gas producing crystals are added to the barium before the patient is made to swallow it. As the barium moves, it is tracked through the esophagus, stomach, and a portion of the small intestines. While the movement of the barium solution is being tracked on a video monitor using fluoroscopy, several x-ray pictures are taken simultaneously at various intervals and from several different directions.

Though this entire procedure is used to check the health of the upper portion of the gastrointestinal tract, the Esophagram consists of only an examination of the mouth, throat and the esophagus. This test is also known as a barium esophagram test or a barium swallow test.

The test is usually performed when a person displays specific symptoms such as difficulty in swallowing, incessant vomiting, pain in the esophagus, and regurgitation. This test can also help detect tumors, ulcers, and other abnormalities in the esophageal tract.

The esophagus is a highly motile organ which helps in the swallowing of food. However, if the motility of the organ is affected due to a disease or any other abnormality, there may be problems in swallowing food and keeping it down. An esophagram procedure, known as the cine esophagogram, is also considered a popular investigative technique for screening those who may have motor disabilities of the esophagus.

To prepare for the test, it is important to discuss the use of any long term medications or kinds of allergies. If you are pregnant or are planning to get pregnant soon, you should discuss it with your doctor. It is recommended that you maintain a diet which is high in fiber for a few days before the test is scheduled. This test is performed after a fast of about 12 hours. Therefore, it is recommended to schedule the test in the morning. It is also not advised for the patient to smoke for twelve hours before or after the test.