Implementation of a Timed Barium Esophagram Protocol for Assessment of Esophageal Function in Children.

Objectives: Timed barium esophagram (TBE) is a fluoroscopic study that is widely employed as an adjunctive tool for diagnosing esophageal emptying disorders in adults (eg, achalasia, esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction [EGJOO]) and for following response to treatment. We aimed to describe the characteristics and feasibility of a pediatric TBE protocol and provide a first report of the potential value of TBE for assessment of esophageal emptying in the pediatric population.

Methods: Retrospective chart review of pediatric patients at a tertiary pediatric hospital who underwent TBE from October 2017 to October 2019.