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Barium Enema

A barium enema examination demonstrates the large bowel (colon). A combination of barium and air is used to temporarily coat the walls of the large bowel making it visible using x-ray Flouroscopy. The examination is used to detect diseases such as polyps, diverticulosis and tumours.

Before the Exam

You need to obtain a preparation kit from us. This will give you instructions about a special diet you must follow closely for two days prior to your examination. The preparation is designed to clear your bowel completely. Residual faecal mater remaining in the bowel can give misleading results, which may lead to the examination being repeated.

Please inform our reception staff when booking your examination if you are diabetic so an appropriate preparation and appointment can be made.

The Barium Enema

You will be asked to change into a gown and lie on an x-ray table. The radiologist (specialist medical imaging doctor) uses fluoroscopy to visualise your bowel on a television monitor. You may be given an injection in your arm to relax your bowel. Occasionally this can result in slightly blurred vision or a dry mouth, which will only last for a few minutes.

A small, lubricated tube will be placed gently into your rectum. Barium fluid is then introduced slowly. Using gravity the doctor will ask you to lie in different positions to pass the barium along the full length of your bowel. The barium is then drained and air is gently introduced into your bowel so that your bowel is distended. This will cause you to feel bloated and colicky in your bowel, but is very important to demonstrate subtle abnormalities in the bowel wall. You will be asked to lie and stand in different positions and to hold your breath when pictures are taken.

Once the test is complete you will be allowed to use the toilet to pass the barium and air. Your stool will be white perhaps for several motions. You should feel better after going to the toilet, but should keep in mind that you may continue to pass some of the barium and air for a short time after the examination.

Post Exam

After your test it is important to drink a lot of water for the next two days and to resume your normal diet so that you do not experience constipation. If you do become constipated we advise you to take a mild laxative. If symptoms persist see your GP.

Please click here for preperation procedure