The diagnostic accuracy of the barium swallow was determined in 109 patients with endoscopically proven esophageal strictures. In 73 (67%) the radiographic findings allowed the pre-endoscopic diagnosis of esophageal stricture. As expected, the radiographic accuracy was inversely related to the diameter of stricture: 10 mm or wider, 47%, 6 to 9 mm, 67%, and 5 mm or less, 92%. © 1979, American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. All rights reserved.