swallowing examination, an x-ray with contrast dye (usually barium) that is performed to pinpoint problems that exist in a patient who is unable to swallow. The examination is used to detect tumors; upper esophageal diverticula; inflammation; extrinsic compression of the upper GI tract; problems resulting from surgery to the oropharyngeal tract; motility disorders of the upper GI tract; and neurological disorders such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and neuropathies.
