Barium Enema (Barium X-ray, Lower GI Series)

Eat a clear liquid dietTake laxativesTake warm water or over-the-counter enemasDo not eat or drink anything after midnight During ProcedureYou can expect to put on a hospital gown and lie on an x-ray table.The room will be darkened during the test.You will hold your breath when x-ray pictures are taken.You will change positions.The x-ray table will be tilted to different positions. AnesthesiaA barium enema, typically does not call for anesthesia. In some cases, you may be given an injection to relax the rectum. Description of the ProcedureA well-lubricated enema tube is gently inserted into the rectum. Barium is injected through this tube into the colon and rectum. A small balloon at the end of the tube is inflated to keep the barium inside. You are repositioned several times to insure that the barium coats the walls of the colon and rectum. A small amount of air is then injected into the colon. A series of X-rays are taken. After x-ray images are completed, the enema tube is removed, and you are shown to the bathroom to expel the barium and air. After ProcedureYou will be shown to the bathroom to pass the barium and you may be given a laxative to help.You will likely feel some mild to moderate abdominal cramping, which may require you to wait awhile before driving home. How Long Will It Take?The procedure typically takes 1 to 2 hours.

Will It Hurt?You may feel some discomfort when the enema tube is inserted. During the test, you may feel some discomfort, including bloating and severe cramping. You may also feel as if you need to move your bowels. Possible ComplicationsInflammation of the lining of the rectum due to an allergic reaction to latex balloonPerforated rectum or colon (serious, but rare)Fetal malformation, if done during pregnancy Average Hospital StayThere is no hospital stay associated with this procedure. Postoperative CareYou can return to your regular diet immediately following the test.You can return to regular activities immediately following test (or as soon as you feel able).You should drink lots of fluids because barium can cause dehydration.You may be given laxatives to help pass barium, which can cause constipation.Your stool may appear white or gray for 2 to 3 days after the test, due to the barium. OutcomeA radiologist will examine the x-rays. (In rare cases, if the x-rays are blurred, the test may have to be repeated.) Usually within a few days, your doctor will tell you the results. If results are abnormal, your doctor will recommend follow-up testing and treatment options. Call Your Doctor If Any of the Following OccursSevere painYour doctor does not call with the results within 3 to 5 days RESOURCES:

American Society of Radiologic Technologistshttp://www.asrt.org/ RadiologyInfo, Radiological Society of America and American College of Radiologyhttp://www.radiologyinfo.org CANADIAN RESOURCES: Radiology Consultant Associatedhttp://www.radiology.ca/ Radiology for Patientshttp://www.radiologyinfo.ca References: National Digestive Disease Information Clearinghouse website. Available at: http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ . The Merck Manual of Medical Information . Merck & Co., Inc.; 2000. University of Iowa Department of Radiology. US National Library of Medicine. Last reviewed November 2007 by Daus Mahnke, MDPlease be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.