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How long does a contrast enema take?
A contrast enema study takes about 15 to 30 minutes.
Are you awake during an enema?
You will remain awake throughout the barium enema procedure. The contrast material (barium) will be put into the rectum through a plastic tube. Aside from that discomfort, you may feel the pressure of the liquid that is being administered. Otherwise, pain should be minimal.
What does a barium enema diagnose?
A barium enema may be performed to diagnose structural or functional abnormalities of the large intestine, including the rectum. These abnormalities may include, but are not limited to: Ulcerative colitis. Ulcerations and inflammation of the large intestine.
Why do you treat intussusception with a barium enema?
The air or contrast material is injected in a manner that creates pressure within the large intestine and pushes or “un-telescopes” the intussusception, thus relieving the obstruction. The therapeutic enema is not always successful, and surgery may need to be performed to correct the problem.
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What do you need to know about a barium enema?
During a barium enema exam, an X-ray machine takes pictures of the colon while an enema tube inserted in the rectum delivers liquid barium. A barium enema is an X-ray exam that can detect changes or abnormalities in the large intestine (colon).
How to prepare for a barium enema at Johns Hopkins?
Step 1. Have only clear liquids for the entire day. Drinking lots of clear liquids is a very important part of the preparation. Clear liquids include: Step 2. At 5 p.m. drink a 10 ounce bottle of magnesium citrate. Have additional clear fluids throughout the evening. Drink a minimum of four 8 ounce glasses of clear liquid.
How is the barium removed from the colon?
This is termed a single-contrast study. In some patients, the barium is instilled and then removed through the enema tube leaving a thin layer of barium on the wall of the colon. The colon is then filled with air.
How is barium solution used for X-rays?
The barium solution will be delivered using an enema — a process in which your doctor pushes a liquid into your rectum through your anus. The barium solution helps to improve the quality of the X-ray images by highlighting certain areas of tissue.