why is barium sulfate used in xray diagnosis of intestinal systems?
(is that the only type of xray its limited to?)
thanks.
2007-01-29 12:34:45 · 3 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
Intestines do not show up on x-rays very well. They have a similar density to the surrounding tissues and skin.
Barium sulfate is not very toxic, and because of its density even small amounts of it show up nicely on an x-ray. Also because it is suspended in liquid, it coats the inside of the intestine. It shows the shape and position of the intestines. You can see things like obstructions, strangulations and in some cases holes. But I think they use a different contrast agent for ulcerations.
2007-01-29 12:43:33 · answer #1 · answered by James H 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
As a form of contrast (shows up the GI structures better). Barium is "radio-opaque", shows up strongly on the films.
2007-01-29 12:41:40 · answer #2 · answered by ckm1956 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Its used to examine your gi tract and shows potential problems for the user.
2007-01-29 12:40:29 · answer #3 · answered by MONTANASYN 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋