An alternative technique for double-contrast esophagography (technical note).

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Routine double-contrast esophagography using effervescent materials and high-density barium is well established as the most efficient way to evaluate the morphology of the esophageal mucosa [1]. Several investigators have attempted to obtain a double-contrast esophagram using negative contrast agents other than air. The use of water to distend the esophagus for a double-contrast effect was first described by Brombart [2] and later modified by Goldstein and Dodd [3]. Wiljasalo and Rissanen [4] were the first to describe the use of sodium methylcellulose and barium separately to achieve a double-contrast esophagram. In their technique [4], the patient was placed erect and given a spoonful of Microtrast followed by a spoonful of sodium methylcellulose, after which the esophagus was filmed in the anteroposterior and both oblique projections. The technique we describe is a modification of this technique.