At PromiseCare Medical Group, patients undergoing a barium enema can expect a thorough explanation of the procedure, which provides a detailed, X-ray-based view of the lower gastrointestinal tract, including the colon, rectum, and anus.
Before the procedure, patients are advised to follow a clear liquid diet and take laxatives to cleanse the bowel. A lubricated tube is then inserted into the rectum to introduce barium.
While risks associated with barium enemas include allergic reactions and radiation exposure, the benefits of detecting conditions like colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel diseases make it a valuable diagnostic tool.
By analyzing data from past procedures, PromiseCare Medical Group medical professionals have found that the benefits of barium enemas in detecting gastrointestinal issues often outweigh the risks.
Overview
Delving into the domain of gastrointestinal diagnostics, a barium enema is an essential examination that shows the inner workings of the lower GI tract. This procedure utilizes liquid barium to enhance X-ray images of the colon, rectum, and anus.
It’s primarily used to diagnose conditions such as colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, and to evaluate bowel obstructions and structural abnormalities.
To prepare for the test, a clear liquid diet must be followed, and bowel cleansing using laxatives is necessary to guarantee clear imaging results.
During the test, a lubricated tube is inserted into the rectum to introduce barium, and a series of X-rays are taken to visualize the barium’s distribution within the colon.
While generally safe, a barium enema carries some risks, including potential allergic reactions to barium, bowel perforation, and radiation exposure, albeit at levels comparable to three years of natural background radiation.
Understanding the procedure and its risks can help navigate this diagnostic journey.
Types
Types of barium enemas offer a nuanced world of variations tailored to uncover specific insights into the lower GI tract. A range of diagnostic tools is available to detect abnormalities in the lower gastrointestinal tract.
A standard barium enema involves filling the colon with barium sulfate to enhance X-ray imaging. However, variations offer more detailed views.
A double-contrast barium enema introduces both barium and air into the colon, expanding the intestinal walls to reveal small surface abnormalities. An air-contrast barium enema uses air as a contrast medium alongside barium, providing clearer images of the colon’s structure and potential issues.
Diagnostic barium enemas are the most common, while therapeutic barium enemas may be used to administer medication or facilitate evacuation of impacted stool.
Understanding the different types of barium enemas helps navigate the diagnostic and therapeutic options available for gastrointestinal care. The choice of barium enema type depends on specific needs, ensuring a safe and effective procedure.
Why it’s done
The barium enema emerges as an essential diagnostic tool when symptoms of gastrointestinal distress persist. It offers a detailed glimpse into the lower GI tract and is necessary to investigate symptoms such as abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, and changes in bowel habits.
The test visualizes structural abnormalities in the colon and identifies obstructions or irregularities in bowel function by filling the large intestine with a barium solution.
This diagnostic tool is particularly useful for detecting conditions like colorectal cancer, bowel polyps, diverticulitis, and inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
The barium enema provides valuable diagnostic insights that help understand the underlying causes of symptoms. By detecting abnormalities in the colon, an effective treatment plan can be developed to address specific health needs.
The barium enema test is a vital step in gaining control of health. It offers a clear picture of the lower GI tract and guides the best course of action.
Who it’s for
A barium enema is a diagnostic tool that’s particularly useful for individuals experiencing symptoms such as rectal bleeding, unexplained abdominal pain, or significant changes in bowel habits. This procedure is often recommended for individuals over 50 or with a family history of colorectal cancer, as it provides a reliable means of screening for this disease.
Individuals struggling with gastrointestinal symptoms that don’t respond to conventional treatments or those who’ve experienced unexplained weight loss may benefit from a barium enema to help uncover the underlying cause. The procedure also assesses suspected inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, allowing for a detailed evaluation of the bowel’s structure and inflammation.
A barium enema is typically considered for individuals with symptoms or conditions requiring a thorough bowel examination. Suitability for the procedure is carefully evaluated, considering any potential risks or contraindications, to ensure that the diagnostic tool is used effectively in identifying the root of symptoms.
This helps individuals receive the necessary treatment to restore bowel health.
Risks
Evaluating the benefits of a barium enema against its potential risks is crucial when considering this procedure. Possible complications, although rare, include bowel perforation, a serious complication that can occur during the procedure.
Common side effects from the laxatives used for preparation include nausea, mild headaches, and bloating. The procedure also involves exposure to radiation, equivalent to three years of natural background radiation. While barium itself is non-radioactive, exposure is something to consider.
After the procedure, an upset stomach or constipation may occur due to the barium remaining in the colon. In rare cases, allergic reactions to barium may occur.
Consulting with a healthcare provider is vital to evaluate individual risks versus benefits. This consultation will help navigate potential risks and side effects, ensuring the best care.
Careful evaluation of the benefits and risks of a barium enema is necessary to make an informed decision about undergoing the procedure.
How you prepare
Preparation is key to a successful barium enema, and it begins well before the procedure itself. To prepare for the exam, a clear liquid diet is adopted one to three days prior, consisting of broth, gelatin, strained juices, and water to empty the colon.
Laxatives may also be prescribed the night before to stimulate bowel cleansing and encourage frequent bowel movements.
Fasting after midnight on the day of the exam is vital to ensure the digestive system is free from any food residue. Specific instructions will be provided, which must be followed meticulously to avoid misdiagnoses due to inadequate bowel preparation.
Hydration is paramount during this period, as it helps replace lost fluids and prevents post-procedure constipation. Adhering to this strict diet and bowel preparation regimen will prepare one for a successful barium enema.
A clean colon is necessary for accurate results, so taking these preparatory steps seriously is essential. Strict adherence to these guidelines ensures the procedure’s effectiveness.
What you can expect
A barium enema can cause discomfort and unease, but understanding the procedure can alleviate some anxiety.
As the barium is introduced into the colon through a lubricated enema tube, a sensation of fullness followed by cramping can be expected. The procedure typically lasts between 30 minutes to 1 hour, during which multiple X-ray images are taken while changing positions to ensure thorough coverage of the colon.
As the barium fills the colon, an intense urge to have a bowel movement may occur. It’s crucial to resist this urge until the imaging is complete.
Discomfort may also be experienced due to air introduced into the colon. After the procedure, increasing fluid intake and consuming a high-fiber diet for a few days is recommended to prevent constipation related to the barium and ensure a smooth recovery.
Stool may appear whitish or light-colored for several days as the barium is expelled from the system. Knowing what to expect can help you navigate the procedure and focus on recovery.
Results
The outcome of a barium enema is an essential aspect of the diagnostic process, offering a detailed glimpse into the colon’s inner workings. As results are awaited, possible revelations come into focus.
Normal results indicate the barium has been evenly distributed throughout the colon without obstructions or abnormalities.
Abnormal results may indicate conditions such as blockages, narrowing of the intestine, or diseases like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Possible findings include:
- Blockages or narrowing: Barium may reveal a blockage or narrowing of the intestine, which can be caused by various factors, including disease or injury.
- Polyps or diverticula: X-ray images may show polyps or diverticula, which are growths or pouches in the colon wall.
- Colorectal cancer: In some cases, the barium enema may detect signs of colorectal cancer.
- Inflammatory bowel disease: Results may indicate the presence of inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
A radiologist interprets the results and prepares a report, which is then communicated to the patient.