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.