The person swallows a barium mixture. Barium is a white, chalky substance that shows the digestive tract in clear contrast on x-ray. As the barium moves down, fluoroscopy shows the outlines of the organs and their movements.
Fluoroscopy uses x-rays to show movement.
Examiners also take still x-rays to record findings. It can also aid the diagnosis of absorption and digestive movement disorders. The person eats light meals for 2 or 3 days prior to the test. Fasting and no smoking are required after midnight before the test. The person must also stop many types of oral drugs and antacids.