This overview is a sample of the type of information available to you at Griffin Hospital's Community Health Resource Center. It is not intended to replace your physician's instructions in the management of your health problems, but to better inform you about a particular illness and alert you to the availability of other materials. If you have a question about any piece of information presented in theses fact sheets, please call your physician, or stop by the Community Health Resource Center at your convenience.

BARIUM ENEMA

(B.E., Lower G.I., Air Contrast Study, Double Contrast)

A barium enema is an x-ray examination of the colon, which is the lower part of your gastrointestinal (G.I.) tract. Since the colon cannot be clearly seen on a regular x-ray, a radiopaque contrast solution (barium) is given by enema to help outline the inner wall of the colon, and show any abnormalities. Air is sometimes used in addition to the barium (air contrast study or double contrast) to ensure that all areas are clearly visible on the x-rays. A barium enema may be used to help your doctor diagnose tumors, polyps, obstructions, diverticulitis, or ulcerative colitis.

For clear and accurate x-rays, it is important that your lower G.I. tract is empty and free of all fecal material or gas. The day before the test, you will be asked to eat a light lunch and to drink only clear liquids (such as clear broth, Jello, and apple juice) for dinner. You will probably be asked not to eat or drink anything after midnight before the test. To ensure that your colon is empty, you may be given laxatives and/or enemas the night before, as well as the morning of the test. Although this may be uncomfortable and annoying (some patients find little time to sleep between frequent trips to the bathroom or commode), having an empty G.I. tract is very important so the test will not have to be repeated.

Barium enemas are performed in the radiology department by a radiologist. Women who are pregnant should tell the doctor before beginning this test since x-rays can be harmful to an unborn baby.

After a regular x-ray of your abdomen, you will be asked to lie on your side while a lubricated tube is passed into the rectum through which the barium can flow. The flow of the barium can be monitored using fluoroscopy, which takes a moving picture instead of a still x-ray. Pressure may be applied to your abdomen to help fill all parts of the colon and you may be asked to lie in different positions. The barium enema usually takes about an hour. Several x-rays may be taken, which the radiologist will examine later and then send a written report to your doctor.

As with any enema, the barium may cause a feeling of fullness, cramping, and a strong urge to empty your bowels. A small balloon on the enema tube will be inflated to help you retain the barium. There is no need to be embarrassed if some of the liquid leaks out. Rest assured that this will not be the first time it has happened.

When the x-rays have been taken you will be asked to go to the bathroom to expel the barium. Afterwards, more x-rays may be taken and air may be used to fill the colon. This can cause cramping and gas pains but this will be relieved as soon as the air is expelled.

After the test, you can return to your room and resume your previous diet. Since barium can be very constipating, so you may want to ask your nurse for a mild laxative. Your stool will appear white or clay-colored as the barium passes out of your body during the next day or two.

Please note that this information is intended to give you a general overview of the topic. It is not intended to replace advice or instruction of a health professional. We recommend that you consult your physician, nurse, or qualified health professional regarding the information in this publication. © 1994 Planetree, Inc. Reproduction of this material in any form is limited to license agreement.

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