A Barium Enema is a special type of X-ray examination that allows doctors to examine your lower intestinal tract. After delivering a contrast solution that contains the metallic element barium into your rectum while a technician takes X-ray images of the area. The barium solution will be delivered using an enema — a process in which your doctor pushes a liquid into your rectum through your anus.
Contraindications • Pregnancy • Allergic reaction • Hematoma
Your doctor will ask you to cleanse your bowels the night before your test. This may include using laxatives or taking an enema at home.
You shouldn’t eat anything after midnight the night before your procedure. On the day of the procedure, you can drink clear liquids, such as water, tea, juice, or broth. This is to ensure that your colon is clear of any stool, which could show up in the X-ray images. Tell your doctor if you’ve been having problems with your bowel movements prior to the test.
A barium enema typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes and is performed at a hospital or specialized testing facility. You’ll change into a hospital gown and remove any jewelry or other metal from your body. Metal can interfere with the X-ray process.
You’ll be positioned on an exam table. X-rays will be taken to ensure that your bowels are clear. This may also involve a physical rectal exam.
The radiologist will then insert a small tube into your rectum and introduce the barium and water mixture. The radiologist may gently push air into your colon after the barium has been delivered in order to allow for even more detailed X-ray images. This is called an air-contrast barium enema.
The technician will instruct you to hold still and hold your breath while the X-ray images are taken. You’ll most likely be repositioned several times to take pictures of your colon from different angles. This may cause you some discomfort and cramping, but it’s typically mild.
If you’re having trouble keeping the solution in your colon, alert the technician.
After the procedure, the majority of the barium and water will be removed through the tube. The rest you’ll pass in the bathroom.
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