Barium Swallow Study: Procedure, Purpose & Difference from Endoscopy

What Is a Barium Swallow (Upper GI Series)?

An X‑ray exam of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. You drink a barium liquid that coats the digestive lining, making it visible on X‑rays. Modified barium swallow adds fluoroscopy or CT for dynamic swallowing assessment. No endoscope is used.

Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

A flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is passed through the mouth to directly visualize the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. It allows biopsy and therapeutic interventions.

Key Difference

Barium swallow = X‑ray imaging with contrast. Endoscopy = direct visual examination with a camera. They are complementary, not interchangeable.