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Reflux of barium into the middle ear during upper gastrointestinal series
Radiology
|June 1, 1980
Insights
Barium refluxed into children's upper airways and ears during gastrointestinal tests. The link between this reflux and middle ear disease requires further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Gastrointestinal examinations are common in pediatric care.
- Understanding potential complications is crucial for patient safety.
Observation:
- During upper gastrointestinal series, barium was observed refluxing into the nasopharynx, eustachian tubes, and middle ears in four children.
- This reflux occurred during routine diagnostic procedures.
Findings:
- Three of the affected children presented with gastroesophageal reflux.
- One child exhibited incoordination of swallowing.
Implications:
- The study highlights an unusual finding of barium reflux into the middle ear spaces in children.
- The clinical significance of this reflux concerning middle ear disease remains undetermined.
- Further research is warranted to explore the potential connection between gastroesophageal reflux and pediatric middle ear conditions.
Abstract:
In four children, barium was refluxed into the nasopharynx, eustachian tubes, and middle ears during routine upper gastrointestinal series. Three children had gastroesophageal reflux and one had incoordination of swallowing. The possible significance of such reflux with regard to middle ear disease is not known.