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)
- inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn's disease or
ulcerative colitis
- 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
healthcare 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 open
up the colon and 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 plain 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
anus 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 pass 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. You may keep having cramps for an hour or two as the air
makes its way out of your bowel. Your bowel movements may look
whitish for a day or so as the barium is cleared from your system.
The radiologist will send a report to your healthcare provider.
Ask your provider when and how you will get the results and when
to come back for a follow-up appointment.
What are the benefits of this procedure?
This procedure helps your healthcare 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 healthcare provider how these risks apply to
you.
When should I call my healthcare provider?
Call your healthcare provider right away if:
- You develop a fever.
- You have weakness or lightheadedness that does not go away
- You have abdominal pain that gets worse.
Call your healthcare provider during office hours if:
- You have questions about the procedure or its result.
- You want to make another appointment.
Developed by Phyllis G. Cooper, RN, MN, and RelayHealth.
This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to
change as new health information becomes available. The
information is intended to inform and educate and is not a
replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or
treatment by a healthcare professional.
© 2009 RelayHealth and/or its affiliates. All Rights Reserved.