What is a double contrast barium enema?
The double-contrast barium enema is an x-ray of the colon and rectum which is performed first by using a suspension of water and barium introduced rectally and then by air which makes it possible to make the structure of the organ visible on x-rays. is entered, i.e. the colon in its entirety
How does the double contrast barium enema work?
The doctor or nurse inserts the tube, up to 10 centimeters, into the patient’s rectum.
By means of a bag connected to the probe, the contrast liquid is then gradually introduced and then the air, useful for allowing a better distribution of the contrast medium.
During the examination, the patient is asked several times to change position (on one side, on the other) to allow the contrast medium to opacify the entire colon so that the doctor can evaluate the best.
Images of the intestine are taken thanks to x-rays and are then transmitted to the reporting monitor.
What is the double contrast barium enema used for?
It is usually carried out when an alteration in the rectum or colon is suspected, or in case of irregular bowel function (sudden onset of constipation, also alternating with diarrhoea).
Double-contrast barium enema is used to look for neoplasms and diverticula (small outpouchings in the intestinal wall).
Which patients can undergo the test?
Double-contrast enema cannot be done if there is intestinal perforation or if peritonitis (inflammation of the peritoneum, which is the membrane that surrounds the intestine) is suspected.
It is an examination that is not performed during pregnancy as x-rays can cause damage to the fetus.
Is it painful or dangerous?
It’s not a dangerous test, but it can be annoying.
The insertion of the probe, the contrast liquid and the air frequently causes abdominal pain, sometimes even severe.
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