Radiographic effects of cold barium suspensions on esophageal motility.

The effects of cold barium solutions on esophageal motility were studied in 70 patients. Baseline esophageal peristalsis was assessed using barium at room temperature. Twenty-eight patients were then re-examined when chilled barium (4 degrees C) was used and results showed a 45% reduction of primary peristalsis. Forty-two patients were re-assessed when iced barium (3 degrees C) was used and results showed a 58% reduction.