A Barium Enema procedure provides an x-ray of the rectum, colon, and lower part of the small intestine and is used to help diagnose colorectal cancer, diverticulitis, and other colon lesions. Barium sulfate, a chalky fluid substance, is used to partially fill and open up the colon. When the colon is approximately half-full of barium, air is inserted to cause the colon to expand. The patient is asked to try to hold the fluid in until x-ray films are taken.

After your physician orders this procedure, you will need to pick up a bowel prep kit from the hospital two days prior to the exam. It is necessary to follow a certain diet for two days before the exam. You will need to drink a liquid and take some pills at specific times to cleanse the bowel. There is also a suppository for use the morning of the exam. Patients can expect to expel barium fluid for several days after the exam.

For specific questions about this test, please talk to your physician or call the Imaging Department at 406-823-6441.