Stomach pain is fairly common and can be a result of a variety of conditions. Pain can be related to overeating, food poisoning, or infection. However in more sever cases, the pain may be an early indication of more a more serious disorder.

Inland Imaging offers several imaging techniques that may help your doctor detect the problem causing stomach pain or determine possible treatment options.

Procedures

X-ray/Fluoroscopy

A fluoroscopy x-ray may be ordered to image the gastrointestinal or digestive system. The x-ray tests examine the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, the areas of the body from the esophagus to the rectum. These x-rays are able to detect abnormalities that occur in any portion of the GI tract.

Fluoroscopy with barium is used to better contrast the outline of the GI tract, with areas of concern appearing white on the x-ray images. It helps to visualize problem areas and can indicate difficulties with swallowing (dysphagia) or digestion, ulcerations, malignancy or structural abnormalities.

Virtual Colonoscopy

A newer procedure that might be an option for detecting areas of concern is a virtual colonoscopy. The test uses Computerized Tomography (CT) technology to scan take pictures of the colon. The CT scan creates cross-sectional and 3-D images than can reveal polyps or other irregularities.

CT

Your doctor may order a Computerized Tomography (CT) scan to evaluate your internal abdominal organs. A CT scan uses split-second computer processing and X-ray technology to produce detailed cross-sectional images of your internal organs.

MRI

A Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is also able to produce detailed images of areas in and around your stomach area. Unlike a CT scan, MRI uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to produce cross-sectional images of your body.