LAB TEST
Barium enema
Barium enema is a special x-ray of the large intestine, which includes the colon and rectum.
How the Test is Performed
This test may be done in a health care provider's office or hospital radiology department. It is done after your colon is completely empty and clean. Your provider will give you instructions for cleansing your colon. During the test: You lie flat on your back on the x-ray table. An x-ray is taken. You then lie on your…
How to Prepare for the Test
Your bowels need to be completely empty for the exam. If they are not empty, the test may miss a problem in your large intestine. You will be given instructions for cleansing your bowel using an enema or laxatives. This is also called bowel preparation. Follow the instructions exactly. For 1 to 3 days before the test,…
How the Test will Feel
When barium enters your colon, you may feel like you need to have a bowel movement. You may also have: A feeling of fullness Moderate to severe cramping General discomfort Taking long, deep breaths may help you relax during the procedure. It is normal for your stools to be white for a few days after this test. Drink…
Why the Test is Performed
The barium enema test is used to: Detect or screen for colon cancer Diagnose or monitor ulcerative colitis or Crohn disease Diagnose the cause of blood in stools, diarrhea, or very hard stools (constipation) The barium enema test is used much less often than in the past. Colonoscopy is done more often now. Another…
Normal Results
Barium should fill the colon evenly, showing normal bowel shape and position and no blockages.
What Abnormal Results Mean
Abnormal test results may be a sign of: Blockage of the large intestine Narrowing of the colon above the rectum ( Hirschsprung disease in infants) Crohn disease or ulcerative colitis Cancer in the colon or rectum Sliding of one part of the intestine into another ( intussusception ) Small growths that stick out of the…
Risks
There is low radiation exposure. X-rays are monitored so that the smallest amount of radiation is used. Pregnant women and children are more sensitive to x-ray risks.
References
Boone D, Plumb A, Taylor SA. The large bowel. In: Adam A, Dixon AK, Gillard JH, Schaefer-Prokop CM, eds. Grainger & Allison's Diagnostic Radiology . 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 22. Rubesin SE. Barium studies of the small bowel. In: Gore RM, ed. Textbook of Gastrointestinal Radiology . 5th ed.…
This is a summary. Read the full article at www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org (reviewed 07/01/2023).
This page is general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace a registered doctor, and it is not a prescription or a recommendation to use any medicine or test. Prices are listed prices and may change. Always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.