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Barium Enema
What is a Barium Enema?
A barium enema is an x-ray of your rectum and colon (lower digestive tract). This test
helps your doctor detect problems such as a blockage, a tumor, polyps, or other disorders.
There is a small amount of radiation with a barium enema, but the benefits of this test far
outweigh any risks.
Before Your Test
The key to an accurate examination is a colon free of stool. The preparation starts the day
before the examination:
- Clear liquids only after 6 pm
- 6 pm: 11 oz. Bottle of Magnesium Citrate (cold) orally
- 8 pm: 3 Ducolax tablets with 2 full glasses of water
- 10 pm: drink at least 2 full glasses of water
- Day of exam: Ducolax suppository at 7 AM
- Light breakfast (for example, tea and toast)
NOTE: If you have severe diarrhea or considerable rectal bleeding, consult your physician
before taking a laxative or suppository. The laxative may act rapidly and unexpectedly. Call
the imaging center if you have specific questions or concerns.
Let the Technologist know:
- Of symptoms you are having
- Of any allergies or asthma
- Of any previous surgery
- Of medications you take
- If you are pregnant or think you may be
- If you ate or drank before the test
- If you didn't finish preparing for the test
During Your Test
A tube (enema tip) is inserted into your rectum. Your colon is then filled with barium
(a liquid that enhances x-ray images). You will feel like you need to go to the bathroom.
A small balloon on the enema tip will help prevent you from moving your bowels. You'll need
to shift your position and hold your breath a few times while the x-rays are taken. Pressure
may be applied to your belly. This helps get the best images. Air also may be added to the
enema to enhance the images even more. You then will be able to go to the bathroom. The
doctor may take one final x-ray before you are done.
Approximate Exam Time
30 minutes
After Your Test
You may now return to your normal eating habits. Drink plenty of fluids (any type of liquids).
Patient who had a morning appointment: At 3:00 PM take 2 teaspoons of any mild laxative.
Patient who had an afternoon appointment: At 5:00 PM take 2 teaspoons of any mild laxative.
(Mild laxatives can be Milk of Magnesia, Haley's MO, etc.)
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