A barium X-ray is a radiographic (X-ray) examination of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Barium X-rays (also called upper and lower GI series) are used to diagnose abnormalities of the GI tract, such as tumors, ulcers and other inflammatory conditions, polyps, hernias, and strictures.f the small intestine is to be examined, the patient may be asked to drink additional barium and a series of X-rays will be taken until the barium reaches the colon. Following the examination, barium may cause constipation.
Dr. Kevin J Mckenna, MD, is a Colorectal Surgery (Proctology) specialist in Hershey, Pennsylvania. He attended and graduated from State University Of New York Health Science Center Of Syracuse in 1988, having over 30 years of diverse experience, especially in Colorectal Surgery (Proctology).
For more information about the Penn State Cancer Genetics Program or to schedule an appointment at Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, or Mount Nittany Medical Center in State College, please call 717-531-1631 or the Penn State Hershey CareLine at 800-243-1455.