Small Bowel Series in Thibodaux, LA
What is a small bowel series?
A small bowel series is a fluoroscopic barium study of the small intestine. A fluoroscopy is essentially an X-ray machine that captures real-time video movements of a particular part of your body. Typically, a small bowel series is done in conjunction with an upper GI series. This will allow your Digestive Health Center provider to see the full process of your digestive system, making it easier for them to diagnose the cause of any of your concerning GI symptoms. If you want to learn more about small bowel series or to see if you are a candidate for one, contact one of our Thibodaux, LA locations to request a consultation today.
How should I prepare for a small bowel series?
Our team will provide you with detailed guidelines on how to prepare for your small bowel series. It is imperative that you follow these instructions before your exam. Your provider may ask you to abstain from eating or drinking for several hours before your exam. Depending on your current medication regimen, you may be asked not to take certain medications until after your exam is complete. Before the exam, you should let your Digestive Health Center provider know if you have any allergies, are pregnant or nursing, or have an insulin pump.
How does a small bowel series work?
Once you arrive at one of our Thibodaux, LA facilities you will be asked to change into a gown. You will be positioned on the tilted X-ray table and the barium contrast agent will be administered. The barium will fill your gastrointestinal tract, highlighting the small intestine. The images will be taken in timed intervals. The table may be tilted in various ways to help the barium spread and to allow the fluoroscope to capture different angles. Once the exam is complete, you will be allowed to change back into your regular clothes and resume your daily activities.
