Double-contrast esophagrams. The prone technique.

The authors describe a simple method for obtaining double-contrast images of the lower esophagus with the patient in a prone position. This technique has a high success rate, allows repeated imaging, and is easily incorporated into routine upper gastrointestinal studies. Diagnostic double-contrast studies were obtained in 78% of 28 patients. Ten abnormalities, including a Mallory-Weiss tear, were demonstrated. Single-contrast esophagrams, performed immediately afterwards, demonstrated only six abnormalities.