 Barium Enema
|
|
 |
|
|
|
A barium enema is an X-ray study in which a small tube is inserted into your child's rectum and the large intestine is then filled with barium. Barium is a non-toxic, contrast liquid that highlights organs to be studied. An X-ray is taken with the barium in your child's intestine, allowing the radiologist to accurately diagnose many abnormalities that may be present. Although there is some discomfort when the tube is inserted, any discomfort or cramping generally only lasts for a short time. In most cases, you are informed of the results immediately after the test.
|
|
|
|
|
|
The procedure is performed personally by radiologists with extensive experience and training in pediatric radiology and with equipment and facilities especially designed for children.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Some of the indications for a barium enema include abdominal pain, severe constipation, and rectal bleeding.
|
|
|
|
|
|
To prepare for a barium enema, your child may not eat for some time prior to the procedure. Exactly how long depends on his or her age. In general, patients should not eat for the length of time that they normally wait between meals. Thus newborns should fast for no more than 2 to 3 hours before the study, while infants and young children should not eat for 3 to 4 hours. For older children and adolescents, the colon must be cleaned out with laxatives. Specific instructions are given prior to your appointment.
|
|
|
|
For most enemas, no preparation is necessary. In older children and adolescents in whom a specific type of enema called an "air contrast" enema is needed, the colon must be cleaned out with laxatives. Exact instructions are given at the time of the appointment.
|
|
|
|
|
|
The procedure is completely safe. There is a little discomfort during insertion of the tube, but no more than with an enema at home. Some crampy pain may occur during the test, but it generally lasts only a short time.
|
|
|
|
|
|
After arriving in the department, one of the radiologic technologists will help your child change into a hospital gown, and will then take a preliminary X-ray, or radiograph, of the abdomen. After the radiologist looks at that picture, your child's intestine will be filled with barium and additional X-rays will be taken. There is no more to the test than that.
|
|
|
|
|
|
The barium fills the intestine, allowing the radiologist to to see more clearly and to diagnose many of the abnormalities that affect the intestine.
|
|
|
|
|
|
In most cases, the radiologist will inform you of the results immediately after completion of the test. The radiologist also will speak to your doctor, with whom you should consult and who will decide with you what, if anything, should be done based on the results.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ask the radiologist interpreting the examination, or call Dr. Carlo Buonomo at 617-355-6496.
|
|
|
