Barium Enema

Summary

A barium enema examination is an X-ray procedure that allows doctors to view the colon and rectum to diagnose conditions like cancer, polyps, or diverticulitis. The procedure involves inserting a lubricated tube into the rectum and filling the colon with barium, followed by a series of X-rays as the patient moves or stands. Afterward, the barium is expelled, and additional images are taken. The procedure helps identify abnormalities and is generally safe, with post-procedure instructions to hydrate and monitor bowel movements.

Takeaways

• 😀 A barium enema is an X-ray procedure used to visualize the large intestine, colon, and rectum.
• 😀 The digestive tract includes the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, and rectum, and it serves to process food and eliminate waste.
• 😀 The colon's main functions are absorbing water, turning liquid waste into solid feces, and storing it until elimination.
• 😀 Common conditions that may affect the colon include colon cancer, polyps, diverticula, ulcers, and strictures.
• 😀 A barium enema may be recommended if you experience unexplained bleeding, abdominal pain, or changes in bowel habits.
• 😀 During the procedure, a lubricated tube is inserted into the rectum, and barium is introduced into the colon.
• 😀 You will need to hold the barium in your colon while X-rays are taken from various positions to capture images of the entire colon.
• 😀 The X-ray images are taken while you roll from side to side or stand up to ensure barium spreads across different areas of the colon.
• 😀 After the procedure, you may need to expel the barium into a bedpan or bathroom, with more X-rays taken afterward to view the remaining barium.
• 😀 After the exam, you can resume your normal diet but should increase fluid intake to help pass the barium from your system.
• 😀 You may notice increased gas and see barium in subsequent bowel movements until all of it is passed.

Q & A

What is a barium enema examination used for?

A barium enema examination, also known as a lower GI series, is an x-ray procedure used to visualize the interior anatomy of the large intestine (colon) and rectum.

What are the main functions of the colon?

The main functions of the colon are to absorb water into the body, convert liquid waste into solid feces, and store the feces until enough accumulates to be passed out during a bowel movement.

What kind of abnormalities may a barium enema help detect in the colon?

A barium enema can help detect conditions such as colon cancer, polyps, diverticula (outpouchings of the colon wall), ulcers, and strictures (narrow areas of the colon).

When might a doctor recommend a barium enema examination?

A doctor may recommend a barium enema examination if you experience unexplained bleeding, abdominal pain, or changes in bowel habits.

What happens during the procedure of a barium enema?

During the procedure, a lubricated tube is inserted into the rectum, and barium is slowly introduced into the colon. X-rays are taken as the barium moves through the colon, and the patient may need to roll or stand to ensure clear imaging.

Why is barium used in a barium enema examination?

Barium is used because it is a contrast material that absorbs x-rays, allowing clear images of the colon and rectum to be obtained.

How is the barium introduced into the colon during the exam?

The barium is introduced into the colon through a lubricated tube that is carefully inserted into the rectum. A bag containing barium is attached to the tube and the barium flows into the colon.

What role does the balloon attached to the tubing play in the examination?

The balloon attached to the tubing is inflated to prevent any barium from leaking out during the examination, ensuring proper imaging.

What should you do while the x-rays are being taken during the barium enema?

While the x-rays are being taken, you will be asked to roll from side to side or stand up. This helps the barium move through different areas of the colon so that sufficient x-ray images can be captured.

What happens after the barium enema procedure is finished?

After the procedure, you may be asked to expel the barium into a bedpan or bathroom. Some additional x-rays may be taken after most of the barium is passed out to ensure complete imaging of the colon.

Are there any specific instructions after the barium enema procedure?

After the procedure, you can resume your normal diet, but it is often recommended to increase fluid intake to help pass the remaining barium. You may notice more gas than usual and see some barium in your subsequent bowel movements.