Radiology: the eyes that look into our inner body

Barium Enema

What is a barium enema?

A barium enema is an X-ray exam of the large intestine (colon).

How do I prepare for this exam?

Two days before the exam, do not eat any fruit, nuts, peas, beans, coarse cereals or fried foods. On the day before the test, your diet should be only clear liquids such as clear broth, cranberry juice, ginger ale, cola, tea or coffee. Do not use cream or milk. Drink as much water as possible throughout the day.

On the morning of the test, you may drink clear liquids without cream or milk. Do not eat any solid food

What will happen In the X-ray room?

A radiologist and a technologist will administer the barium enema. The barium mixture fills the large intestine so that it can be seen on X-ray. The radiologist will watch the images of your intestine on a special X-ray television screen. At times, the radiologist will ask you to change your position or hold your breath so that "snapshots" or spot films may be taken.

After these "snapshots" are taken, the technologist will take several larger films of your abdomen.