Barium Enema (Fluoroscopy)
A physician may order a barium enema, an examination of the lower gastrointestinal tract to look for ulcers, benign tumors, cancer or for signs of certain other medical conditions. The procedure is frequently performed on individuals suffering from chronic diarrhea, blood in stools, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, unexplained weight loss, a change in bowel habits or suspected blood loss.
If you are having a barium enema performed, you should tell the radiologist or technologist about any allergies to food or medications, as well as any recent illnesses or medical conditions you may have. Women should always inform their technologist if they are or could be pregnant. Your doctor will give you detailed instructions on how to prepare for your barium enema. You will likely be asked not to eat during the day before the procedure and to drink only clear liquids like juice, tea and black coffee, cola or broth. After midnight you should take nothing by mouth. You may also be asked to take a mild laxative (in either pill or liquid form) and to use an over-the-counter enema the night or even a few hours before the study. Once you arrive for your appointment, you will be asked to change into a patient gown and to remove jewelry, eyeglasses or any metal objects that could obscure the film.
The equipment used for the barium enema consists of a large flat table with a moveable arm above it that sends real-time images to a monitor. The table can move and tilt. The images record the progress of a contrast agent through the body. The contrast agent is normally barium, which is introduced into the colon through a rectal tube. Prior to inserting the barium into the rectum, a preliminary film is made to check the adequacy of the bowel preparation. The patient may be repositioned frequently, to allow the technologist to capture views from several angles.
As the barium fills your colon, you will feel the need to move your bowel. You may feel abdominal pressure or even mild cramping. These are common sensations and most people tolerate the mild discomfort easily.
Once the x-ray is completed, the patient is directed to the washroom to expel the remaining barium and air. In some cases more films will be taken to see how well the colon has cleared. The exam normally takes between 30 - 60 minutes. Most patients can return to a normal diet immediately after the exam. Your stools may appear white for a day or so while the barium clears your system, or you may experience constipation.
After the exam is completed, the radiologist will analyze the films and send a signed copy of his or her interpretation to your physician. Your physician will inform you of the results.
