Which diagnostic procedure is used for evaluating esophageal pathology?

The barium swallow is a key diagnostic procedure used to evaluate esophageal pathology. During this test, a patient ingests a barium-containing liquid, which coats the lining of the esophagus and appears radiopaque on X-rays, allowing for clear visualization of the esophagus's structure and function. This technique is particularly useful for assessing conditions like strictures, tumors, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and dysphagia, as it allows clinicians to observe the movement of barium through the esophagus while also identifying any abnormalities in the shape or function of the esophagus.

While a CT scan provides detailed cross-sectional images of the body's internal structures and is useful for assessing surrounding organs and identifying masses, it is not the primary tool for directly evaluating esophageal function or pathology. Ultrasound, on the other hand, primarily evaluates soft tissue structures and is less effective for imaging the esophagus due to its air-filled nature. Endoscopy, a more invasive procedure, allows for direct visualization and intervention within the esophagus, but it is typically not the first step in non-invasive evaluation due to its associated risks and the need for sedation.

Therefore, the barium swallow provides an efficient and non-invasive approach to identify and assess various esophageal conditions,