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Last updated: 11/24/2009
Because the upper GI series is an x ray procedure, it does involve minor exposure to ionizing radiation. Unless the patient is pregnant, or multiple radiological or fluoroscopic studies are required, the small dose of radiation incurred during a single...
procedure poses little risk. However, multiple studies requiring fluoroscopic exposure that are conducted in a short time period have been known, on very rare occasions, to cause skin death (necrosis) in some individuals. This risk can be minimized by careful monitoring and documentation of cumulative radiation doses.
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An upper GI endoscopy is a procedure in which a thin tube is placed in the mouth and throat and advanced to the stomach and first part of the small intestine. As the animations shows, the endoscope contains a tiny video camera and often small surgical instruments which can be used for diagnosis or treatment.
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Definition
An upper GI examination is a fluoroscopic examination (a type of x-ray imaging) of the upper gastrointestinal tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine (duodenum).
Purpose
An upper GI series is frequently requested when a patient experiences unexplained symptoms of abdominal pain, difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia), regurgitation, diarrhea, or weight loss. It is used to help diagnose disorders and diseases of, or related to, the upper gastrointestinal tract, including cases of hiatal hernia, diverticuli, ulcers, tumors, obstruction, enteritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease, Crohn's disease, and pulmonary aspiration.
From http://www.lifesteps.com/gm/Atoz/ency/upper_gi_exam.jsp
Other Information
In 2000, Urinary Incontinence affected an estimated 38 percent of women aged 60 or older. Urinary incontinence affected an estimated 17 percent of men aged 60 or older.
From: NKUDIC
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