Paediatric Barium Meal

Medical Imaging patient informationScreening:Paediatric Barium MealWhat is a Barium Meal?A barium meal is a radiographic examination of the upper gastrointestinal tract, and may includeoesophagus, stomach, duodenum and small bowel. A barium procedure studies different functions,which includes the form and function of the oesophagus, stomach and small bowel.Barium is a white, chalky mixture mixed with water designed to coat the lining and folds within thestomach.How do I make an appointment for this procedure?A specialist Paediatric Radiologist performs all paediatric-screening examinations. Sessions arescheduled for Tuesdays 9:00am – 1:00pm and Wednesdays 1:00pm – 5:00pm.Please phone 9508 1444 during business hours (8:00am – 6:00pm Monday to Friday) to make anappointment.What preparation is required?Your child will need to fast for 4 hours prior to the procedure. Your child will need to remove allclothing (including nappies) and will be asked to change into a hospital gown.Please bring a change of underclothes and your child’s favourite toy.What is involved?Your child will be given a bottle containing flavoured barium to swallow. X-ray images will be takenas the child swallows the mixture and also of the stomach.Are there any side effects?Some children may experience an upset stomach or constipation following the procedure whenrequired to drink barium. It is important to encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids followingthe procedure to help wash the barium through the stomach and bowel.How long will this take?A barium meal procedure will take approximately 10 - 15 minutes.How do I get my results?Digital images are immediately available to your doctor and your records will be kept permanently.This occurs through a system called PACS. If a priority report is requested it will be issued withintwo hours and faxed or emailed to your doctor, however this can sometimes take up to 24 hours.If your referring doctor wants to see you on the day of your examination, please advise thereception staff when you arrive for your appointment, so the appropriate information can be madeavailable for you to take to your doctor.How much will this cost?Please speak with the receptionist when making your booking regarding the cost.Cabrini Medical Imaging183 Wattletree Rd Malvern Vic 3144 & 243 New St Brighton Vic 3186

Please note:If you are or think you may be pregnant or if you are breast-feeding, please tell the staff when youmake your booking for the test. It is important to bring with you your referral, previous X-rays orother tests (only if previous ones were not done at Cabrini or MIA).For an appointment or if you have any questions about the test please call 9508 1444.Cabrini Medical Imaging183 Wattletree Rd Malvern Vic 3144 & 243 New St Brighton Vic 3186