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To make the intestine visible on an x-ray picture, the colon is filled with a contrast material containing barium. This is done by pouring the contrast material through a tube inserted into the anus (hence the name barium enema). The barium blocks x-rays, causing the barium-filled colon to show up clearly on the x-ray picture.
Types of Barium Enema
Single-Contrast
In a single-contrast study, the colon is filled with barium, which outlines the intestine and reveals large abnormalities.
Double-Contrast
In a double-contrast or "air-contrast" study, the colon is first filled with barium and then the barium is drained out, leaving only a thin layer of barium on the wall of the colon. The colon is then filled with air. This provides a much more detailed view of the inner surface of the colon, making it easier to see small polyps, tumors or inflammation.
Day Before Exam Instructions
- Clear liquid diet for all meals. This can include clear broth, plain Jell-O, tea, black coffee, soft drinks and clear fruit juices.
- One eight ounce glass of water every two hours all day.
- Ten ounce Magesium Citrate at 4 p.m.
- Three Dulcolax tablets at 6 p.m.
- One Dulcolax suppository at bedtime.
- Do not eat after midnight before exam, but you may drink water.
Outpatients
For double-contrast/air-contrast colon tests, arrive one hour and 15 minutes before your test for an enema.
Special Note
Patients having a combination of colon and kidney x-rays should follow the instructsion for Barium Enema. Laxatives may be purchased at a pharmacy without a prescription.
We also offer barium enema procedures for children. Learn More
If you have any questions about the test, please call the Radiology Department at 704-384-4056.
