Скачать или смотреть Barium Enema Test Explained: What to Expect and Why It’s Done

In this video Dr O'Donovan covers key things you need to know about a Barium Enema.

A barium enema (contrast enema or lower GI series) is a special type of X-ray for your large intestine. It involves filling your bowel with a contrast substance called barium, which makes the X-rays show up better. A healthcare provider inserts the barium into your rectum like an enema before taking pictures.

What it is: A barium enema is a procedure that uses X-rays to examine the large intestine.
Barium, a contrast agent, is introduced into the colon to make it visible on X-rays.
It's used to diagnose various conditions affecting the large bowel.

How it works:
1. Preparation:
Patients may be asked to follow a specific diet and may need to take a laxative or use an enema to cleanse the bowel beforehand.
2. Procedure:
The patient lies on an examination table, often on their side.
A lubricated tube is inserted into the rectum.
Barium is introduced through the tube into the colon.
In some cases, air may also be introduced to create a double-contrast effect for a more detailed view.
X-ray images are taken as the barium flows through the colon.
The patient may be asked to change positions during the procedure to allow for images from different angles.
3. Post-Procedure:
After the procedure, the barium is expelled from the body.
Patients may be advised to drink plenty of fluids and eat high-fiber foods to help with the elimination of barium and prevent constipation.
Why it's used:

Diagnosis:
Barium enemas are used to diagnose a wide range of conditions, including:
Inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease)
Colorectal cancer
Polyps (small growths in the colon)
Diverticulitis (inflammation of small pouches in the colon)
Blockages or narrowing of the colon
Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation)

Monitoring:
It can also be used to monitor the progression of certain conditions or the effectiveness of treatment.


CONTENT AND TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Introduction
00:31 - What is a barium enema and what is it used for?
01:26 - How to prepare for the test
02:05 - What happens on the day
03:01 - What happens after the test
03:48 - Potential risks and side effects

*Website resources*

NHS UK information (UK) - https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatmen...

Cleveland Clinic (USA) - https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health...

Video made: July 2025

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