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An air contrast barium enema is a radiological test used to
obtain a visual image of the colon. With advances in technology, air contrast
barium enemas are being used less often. Instead, colonoscopies and CT
colonography are more commonly used since they are able to detect smaller polyps
and cancers that might be missed by a barium enema. However, air contrast barium
enema can be useful to detect inflammatory conditions of the colon when the
endoscopist is unable to complete a colonoscopy.
How do I prepare for the air contrast barium enema?
Your doctor will give you instructions on what you
should and should not eat or drink in the days before the test. Generally, your
diet will be adjusted to include more liquid and less solids. Occasionally, a
full liquid diet may be recommended. It is important to follow these
instructions because the colon needs to be empty for the test to be effective.
If necessary, the doctor also may recommend a laxative or enema to cleanse the
colon before the test.
What happens on the day of the test?
On the day of the test, you will be brought into the
testing room and positioned on a table.
Behind you will be a specialized X-ray instrument called a
fluoroscope. A fluoroscope allows video images of the body to be seen on a
monitor. The X-ray technician will probably first take a regular X-ray of your
abdomen. After that, he or she will insert a lubricated tube into your anus. At
this point a radiologist will enter the room and start the examination. The anal
tube is connected to a bag of barium sulfate solution, which is then carefully
and slowly allowed to fill about half of your colon. The radiologist controls
the amount of barium.
After the barium fills about half of the colon, the
radiologist will slowly pump air into the colon until it is fully distended. You
will be asked to rotate on the table several times in order to coat the entire
lining of the colon. Several pictures of various parts of the colon will be
taken. For each of these pictures, you will be asked to move into a certain
position. Once you are in the correct position, it is important to remain still
and hold your breath while the X-rays are being taken.
As the test is being performed, it is common to feel slight
cramping and a strong urge to have a bowel movement. These are normal responses.
Taking deep breaths can help you relax and may alleviate this feeling.
What happens after the test?
You will be allowed to return to your normal diet and
lifestyle soon after the test.
You will pass what remains of the barium for the next few
days. Drinking fluids (8-10 glasses of fluid per day, for 2-3 days) helps move
the barium out of your system.
Rarely, an infection or a tear in the rectal wall can result
from an air contrast barium enema. Still it is important to look out for the
following warning signs.
Call your doctor immediately if you:
- Develop a fever
- See a substantial amount of
blood in your stool
- Are in a lot of pain
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