A barium enema is an x-ray exam of the large intestine (colon).
Why is a barium enema performed?
A barium enema can provide information about the large intestine or colon that will help diagnose certain diseases or conditions in patients that are experiencing pain, bleeding or changes in their bowel habits. A barium enema can also be a valuable screening tool for patients with a family history of colon cancer.
What can I expect during A barium enema exam?
A radiologist and a technologist will administer the barium rectally through a small catheter. Additionally, the radiologist may use the catheter to inflate the intestine with air. The barium mixture will fill the large intestine so that it can be seen on x-ray. The radiologist will watch the images of your intestine on a special x-ray monitor. At times, the radiologist will ask you to change your position or hold your breath so that different views may be taken. After this, the technologist will take several larger films of your abdomen.
The exam may be mildly to moderately uncomfortable. Some patients experience cramping and bloating.
How long will my barium enema exam take?
The enema will take about 15 minutes. However, you should allow extra time for preparation and for x-rays of the colon to be taken by the technologist – about one hour in total.
Is the barium enema exam safe?
Within the medical community there is general agreement that the benefits of
performing the tests far outweigh the dangers of the small amount of radiation associated with these studies.
Scientific advances allow for better images with lower doses of radiation. We continually upgrade our equipment to provide the latest technology and adhere to a strict monitoring and quality assurance program for all equipment.
Prior to any exam, please inform the staff if you are, or think you may be, pregnant.
Do I need a referral (prescription) to have my barium enema exam?
Yes, your doctor must provide a referral (prescription) for you to receive an exam. Although precertification is not always required, insurance plans vary. Please verify your coverage prior to your barium enema appointment.
When will I know the results of my exam?
A detailed written report of the procedure will be sent to the referring physician within 24 hours. Your physician will contact you to discuss the results. Urgent results are telephoned immediately to your doctor who will discuss the results with you.
When can I eat and drink after the exam?
You may eat as soon as the exam is over. You should drink plenty of liquids to avoid constipation from the barium.
What should I do to prepare for a barium enema exam?
Please call our office at (203) 838-4886 to arrange to pick up a bowel cleansing kit and a schedule with additional instructions.
We encourage you to use the kit that we provide, but if you are not able to pick up this kit at our office, you can purchase a Fleet Prep Kit #1 (not to be confused with a Fleet enema) at your pharmacy.* Follow the instructions on the package for the 24-hour prep and eat lightly for 24 hours prior to the exam. This would mean clear liquids such as juices or soups, plain gelatin, and no solid food.
On the morning of the test, you may drink water. Do not eat any solid foods.
Essential medication may be taken with a sip of water. If you are diabetic, please consult your doctor before taking any medication on the morning of your exam.
Special note: If you have severe kidney disease, do not use the Fleet Prep Kit #1. Consult your physician.
