General Radiology

Barium Enema

A relatively noninvasive method of evaluating the colon is to introduce barium into the rectum and monitor it fluoroscopically as advances through the colon. This allows an assessment of colonic motility as well as evaluation of the lining of the colon for polyps, tumors, ulcerations and diverticula. In order to cleanse the colon from stool, a 24-hour preparation is utilized, including Fleet Prep Kit #1 and a clear a clear liquid diet. Retained stool may mimic polyps and rendered the barium enema less effective. During the procedure, the patient is placed on an x-ray table, and barium is instilled into the rectum via a small balloon tip catheter. The barium column is monitored fluoroscopically, and once the colon is filled, the barium is then drained. Air is then instilled into the colon via the same catheter to produce a double contrast effect. As the air is instilled, the patient may feel temporarily distended and experience some cramps, until it is released at the end of the study. Multiple x-ray exposures of the whole colon in different positions are then taken and examined by the radiologist. After the study is completed, the patient is sent to the bathroom to evacuate the air and remaining barium. A laxative is also prescribed to help elimination of the barium.