Colon X-ray (Single or Dual Contrast)

Barium Enema (Single- or Double-Contrast)

DESCRIPTION: This is an examination performed under fluoroscopic guidance to evaluate the large intestine following the administration of a contrast agent via the rectal route.

APPOINTMENT: Required.

DIETARY RESTRICTIONS: Starting 24 hours before the procedure, you should avoid high-fiber foods that leave residue, fried foods, and meat. You may consume clear soup, fruit juice without pulp, sugar-free soda, and sugar-free, non-dairy coffee or tea. In particular, milk, creamy beverages, and carbonated drinks should not be consumed. Drinking plenty of water is recommended (for example, one glass every hour).

PATIENT PREPARATION: To ensure bowel cleansing, a laxative should be taken orally approximately 14 hours before the procedure. Since the type of laxative and the method of administration will be determined by the Radiology specialist based on the patient’s age and weight, the patient must contact the Radiology Department prior to the examination. Starting the morning of the procedure, nothing should be eaten or drunk until the examination is performed. The patient must arrive for the examination on an empty stomach.

The use of a laxative (purgative) may not be appropriate in the following situations:

1 – In cases of fluid restriction,

2 – In cases of kidney failure,

3 – In cases of congestive heart failure,

4 – For patients under 15 years of age,

5 – In cases of gastrointestinal obstruction (blockage) or suspected obstruction

In the situations described above, please inform the radiologist.

CONDITIONS THAT PREVENT THE EXAMINATION: Barium studies performed within 72 hours prior to this examination prevent the procedure. Additionally, if ordered for the same patient, IVP, cholangiography, and CT scans must be performed before this procedure.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: The administration of barium sulfate into the gastrointestinal tract is contraindicated in patients with suspected bowel perforation. Pregnancy or suspected pregnancy constitutes an absolute contraindication.

CONTRAST MEDIUM: Barium sulfate (rectal administration).

AVERAGE PROCEDURE DURATION: 30–45 min.

TRANSPORT: No special requirements.

POST-PROCEDURE INFORMATION: The patient may resume normal daily activities. The examination is evaluated and reported by a radiologist. The films and the examination report are provided to the patient together. Patients who have had barium sulfate administered to the gastrointestinal tract are advised to drink plenty of fluids after the examination.