The diagnostic and cost effectiveness of overhead projections in the examination of the stomach and duodenum.

The usefulness of routine overhead views in the double-contrast investigation of the stomach and duodenum was evaluated. In this series, overhead views missed 26% of the lesions diagnosed and diagnosed no lesion not also seen on spot films. The authors could thus find no indication for the routine use of overhead views. It is concluded that overhead projections add no information to the examination, are not cost-effective, and can be eliminated without detriment to the patient.