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.

This test is also called a lower gastrointestinal (GI) exam, or lower GI.

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?

• Because the large intestine needs to be empty, you will have a special diet for a day or two before the exam. Follow your health care provider's instructions for what you should or should not eat or drink before the procedure. Usually you will need to use a laxative or enema 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 on an x-ray table. After an x-ray is taken to check that your intestines are free of stool, the technologist will insert a lubricated tube into your anus. The barium solution will be passed through the tube into your rectum and colon. Air may also be injected through the tube to help the barium thoroughly coat the lining of the colon. The technologist will follow the flow of barium with a fluoroscope, which is a special x-ray machine that uses continuous x-rays to show movement. Various still x-rays will also be taken. You may be asked to change positions several times while the flow of barium is being filmed. At times, pressure may be applied to your abdomen, or the table may be tilted to get different views.

You may have some cramps or an urge to have a bowel movement during the test. It is important for you to try to contract the rectum to keep the barium in. The enema tip is specially designed to help you do that.

At the end of the test, the tube is removed and you go to the restroom to expel the barium and air still left in your intestine. You will then return to the table for a final x-ray.

The complete procedure takes an hour or less. Usually you will need to hold the barium inside for no longer than 15 minutes.

What happens after the procedure?

There is usually nothing special you need to do after a barium enema. Your bowel movements may look whitish for a day or so as the barium is cleared from your system. You may keep having cramps for an hour or two as the air makes its way out of your bowel.

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.