What does the term "barium swallow" refer to in radiology?

The term "barium swallow" specifically refers to a radiographic examination that uses barium sulfate, a radiopaque contrast material, to visualize the esophagus and sometimes the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. During this procedure, the patient ingests a barium solution, which coats the lining of the esophagus, allowing it to be clearly imaged on X-rays. This method helps healthcare providers detect abnormalities such as strictures, tumors, and other conditions affecting the esophagus.

The use of barium in this context is crucial, as it enhances the contrast between the esophagus and surrounding tissues, making it easier to identify any pathological changes. The examination is not related to MRI scans of the brain, CT scans of the abdomen, or dental X-ray procedures, which involve different structures and techniques. Each of those procedures focuses on distinctly different areas of the body and employs different imaging modalities, thus reinforcing "barium swallow" as a term specifically tied to esophageal assessment.