Question

When performing a GI series, which of the following structures is (are) not demonstrated with the use of oral barium?

1) 2 only
2) 3 only
3) 1 and 4 only
4) 2 and 3 only

Answer 1

In a GI series using oral barium, structures of the mouth specialized for digestion are not typically demonstrated, as barium is used to visualize the upper GI tract starting at the esophagus.

Step-by-step explanation:

When performing a GI series with the use of oral barium, certain structures of the gastrointestinal tract are not demonstrated. Oral barium is used to visualize the upper GI tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). However, structures like those in the mouth, which include the teeth, tongue, salivary glands, and other tissues specialized for digestion, are not typically demonstrated in a barium swallow study. Barium does not outline these structures as it does with the esophagus and stomach. Furthermore, the oral phase of swallowing and initial digestion in the mouth are processes that occur before the barium is swallowed. Therefore, when considering what structures are not shown, items 2 and 3 refer to the specialized structures in the mouth for digestion, and the description of digestion in the mouth would be the correct choices.