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McKesson Clinical Reference Systems: Women's Health Advisor 2002.2
Illustration
Barium Enema
What is a barium enema?
A barium enema is a procedure in which x-rays and barium are
used to examine your intestines and rectum. Barium is a
fluid that shows up clearly on an x-ray.
When is it used?
A barium enema is usually used to look for problems in the
large intestine, such as:
- diverticula (weak areas or pouches in the wall of your
intestine)
- polyps (growths that project from the lining of the colon
into the space inside the bowel)
- cancer.
How do I prepare for a barium enema?
- Follow your health care provider's instructions for what
you should or should not eat or drink before the
procedure. Because the large intestine needs to be
empty, you will have a special diet for a day or two
before the exam. You usually will need to use a laxative
recommended by your provider.
- Wear loosely fitting, comfortable clothes that are easy to
get in and out of.
What happens during the procedure?
During the test, you will lie in different positions on an
x-ray table. The x-ray technologist will insert a
lubricated tube into your anus. The barium solution will be
passed through the tube into your rectum. You may have some
cramps or an urge to have a bowel movement. It is important
for you to keep your rectal muscle contracted around the
tube. This prevents leakage of barium. The technologist
will follow the flow of barium with a fluoroscope, which
uses continuous x-rays to show movement. Various still
x-rays will also be taken.
At the end of the test, the tube is removed and you will be
asked to expel as much barium as possible. You will then
return to the table for a final x-ray of the empty colon.
In some cases the technologist may at this time decide to
pump air into the colon to get better views of the colon.
The procedure takes about 20 minutes and causes some
discomfort and sometimes stomach cramps.
What happens after the procedure?
A small amount of barium passes from your bowel after the
procedure. The rest of the barium is passed with your bowel
movements.
There is usually nothing special you need to do after a
barium enema.
The radiologist will send a report to your health care
provider. Ask your provider when and how you will get the
results and when to come back for a checkup.
What are the benefits of this procedure?
This procedure helps your health care provider diagnose
problems of the lower intestine and rectum.
What are the risks associated with this procedure?
- You may feel weak and dizzy from the enema.
- Rarely, the wall of the intestine may tear if it is weak.
If this occurs, you may need surgery.
- Rarely, you may develop an infection.
You should ask your health care provider how these risks
apply to you.
When should I call my health care provider?
Call your health care provider right away if:
- You develop a fever.
- You have weakness or abdominal pain that gets worse.
Call your health care provider during office hours if:
- You have questions about the procedure or its result.
- You want to make another appointment.
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