Double-contrast examination of the postoperative stomach

Radiological accuracy in evaluating the postoperative stomach conventionally ranges from 20 to 70% (as reported in the literature). Alternatively, a double-contrast examination can be performed using a high-density barium-suspension effervescent agent and glucagon. No intubation is required. In 40 patients who underwent gastric surgery, comparison of radiologic and endoscopic findings indicates that a high quality double-contrast study was very accurate. There were 7 radiologic errors (18%) in the 40 examinations. However, in the examinations assigned the highest confidence level there were no errors, while in those assigned the next highest level there was 1.