Upper Gastro-Intestinal study (UGI study)



1. Contrast medium

Liquid barium at a concentration of 30 % w/v (fairly liquid) : 8 - 15 ml/kg (8 ml/kg for a large dog, and 15 ml/kg for a small dog or a cat).

For a 20 kg dog, the dose to administer is approximataly 200 ml

If intestinal rupture is suspected, iodinated contrast media are indicated. Non ionic, low osmolar contrast media as iohexol or iopamidol (routinely used for myelography) are now recommended (iohexol 240, diluted 1:3, 10 ml/kg).

Liquid barium produces a better radiographic study than iodinated contrast media and should be prefered every time an intestinal rupture is not suspected (which is most of the time).

2. Procedure

Patient should be fasted 12 to 24 hours prior to the study. An enema is also recommended as needed. Survey radiographs are always performed prior to administration of contrast medium to :
Contrast medium is best administered via a gastric tube to minimize risk of aspiration. Right lateral, left lateral, ventro-dorsal and dorso-ventral views of the abdomen are obtained (as for a simple contrast gastrogram). Lateral and VD views are then obtained according to the following schedule :

Time (dog) Time (cat)Radiographs
Before administration Before administrationLateral and VD views
Immediately ImmediatelyLeft and right lateral, VD and DV views
20 min.15 min.Lateral and VD views
40 min.30 min.Lateral and VD views
1 hour45 min.Lateral and VD views
1 hour 1/21 hourLateral and VD views
2 hour Lateral and VD views


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