BARIUM ENEMA
Why Am I Having This Test?
Your physician requested this exam after considering your symptoms and diagnosis. The results of the exam will help him chart a course for your future care.
Preparation For Test
Purchase a Fleet Prep Kit II (over the counter) at a food or drug store. Follow the directions for the 24-hour prep.
What Does This Test Consist Of?
An enema tip (which is connected to a bag containing barium) is inserted into your rectum by the technologist. The barium is allowed to run through the tubing connected to the tip. The barium fills your bowel and the Radiologist takes X-rays. The Radiologist may ask you to tum from side to side during the exam. The flow of barium is stopped during the exam with a clamp on the tubing and then the bag is lowered to the floor so that some of the barium is allowed to flow back to the bag to reduce the amount in your bowel. After the initial taking of X-rays the tip will be removed and you may go to the bathroom. Afterwards one more X-ray will be taken. If the enema is "with air" a squeezable bulb will have been attached to the tubing near the bag of barium and the Radiologist will squeeze this bulb to allow air to enter your large bowel during the taking of X-rays. This air insertion allows a more detailed picture of your bowel. To counteract the cramping and bowel spasms that may occur when air is inserted an injection may be given before the start of the exam. It is a natural enzyme made by the pancreas that is called glucagon. This is absorbed into your system within ten minutes. There are no side effects, the job of the glucagon is to make you more comfortable and reduce cramping during the procedure.
After Your Barium Study
Increase fluid intake. Resume normal diet. Take a laxative if you become constipated. Contact your referring physician for results of the study or any prescriptions you may need. The telephone number for the Radiologist is 410-828-2320.
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