High density, low viscosity barium for fine mucosal detail on double-contrast upper gastrointestinal examinations.

A high-density, low viscosity barium suspension was developed to maximize demonstration of very small mucosal details on double-contrast upper gastrointestinal examinations. The suspension is capable of 250% wt/vol densities without mechanical mixing, while retaining a low viscosity. In vitro tests showed the material to be superior to suspensions of greater viscosity and/or more moderate density in demonstrating fine surface detail. Clinical experience with more than 3,000 examinations with the 250% wt/vol barium suspension has shown the material to be capable of demonstrating areae gastricae or similar fine nodular patterns in approximately 70% of studies.