Barium Enema - Air Contrast Barium Enema

What is a barium enema?
A barium enema examination is a common procedure done to visualize the colon and rectum. The purpose is to detect polyps, inflammation, diverticula and changes in the colon. Barium is a liquid, which shows tissue structure of the colon separate from the other organs in the abdomen. The barium must be retained while a series of x-rays are taken. An air contrast barium enema uses an additional contrast, which is air. The procedure takes less than one hour.

What is the preparation?
It is essential for the colon (sometimes called the large bowel) to be empty and clean. Your physician’s office or hospital will give you complete instructions on the preparation to include a liquid diet the day before the examination.

Any woman who thinks she may be pregnant should inform her doctor before scheduling the procedure.

Please check with your health care provider about taking medications prior to your exam.

What is the examination like?
You will be asked to change into an x-ray gown for this procedure and lie on the x-ray table with the equipment positioned above you. A lubricated enema tip will be inserted into your rectum. A radiologist will use the x-ray equipment and watch as the barium flows into your colon. You will be asked to turn from side to side as the images are taken. For air contrast barium enema’s, the barium may be drained back into the enema bag after the colon has been coated and then air will be introduced into the colon to provide a double contrast. (Barium and air) After a series of x-rays are completed, you will be allowed to go to the bathroom and expel the barium and air. You may notice evidence of barium in your stool for the next few days.

What do you need to do after the procedure?
It is important to maintain your regular diet and drink lots of water throughout the day – 6-8 glasses. This will allow your colon to be sufficiently cleansed of barium and avoid constipation. After this procedure you may resume normal activities.

What about the results?
Once the examination is completed, the x-rays will be studied by the radiologist and compared to any previous x-rays of the same area you may have had taken previously. A written report of the radiologist interpretation will be forwarded to your physician either by fax or mail. Please allow a few days before contacting your physician for the results.

Questions?
If you have any questions before or after your appointment, please call the Radiology Department at 802-257-8820.

For more information on the Department of Radiology at BMH click here.