An esophagram is an x-ray to create pictures of the throat, stomach and intestines. During the procedure, you drink a liquid, called barium sulfate, which sharpens the x-ray pictures as the liquid moves in the body.  This test is used to check for problems like trouble swallowing, a blocked intestine, stomach pain while eating, or severe heartburn.

Though it is a less costly imaging test, the price varies as it can be done in a number of settings – like a doctor’s office, an imaging center, or a hospital clinic.   

An alternate test is an endoscopy which uses a tube with a light and camera to examine the throat, stomach, and small intestine. Another option is an upper gastrointestinal series (UGI).  These procedures generally are a lot more expensive than an esophagram so should be done when best suited to the patient’s needs.

These are 2023 prices.  Use the link below to see if you can get a current, personalized cost estimate from your health insurer.