Barium Enema

What is a Barium Enema?

A barium enema is a fluoroscopic X-ray study ("live" dynamic imaging that is viewed on a monitor in real time) that visualizes your large bowel and rectum. 

A barium-sulfate solution, sometimes accompanied with air, is introduced into the colon through a small tube inserted into the rectum.  The barium solution allows visualization of the large intestine on an x-ray monitor.

How do I prepare for the exam?

Patients arriving for a barium enema must follow the strict guidelines below. Inadequate preparation for the exam will often require re-scheduling.

You will need to purchase HalfLytely® and Bisacodyl Tablet Bowel Prep Kit from a local drugstore to prepare your bowel for this exam. Please follow the instructions below to ensure best results. 

Day Before the Procedure

Morning: You may have a light breakfast the day before the procedure, or you may just drink clear liquids. 

Add lukewarm water to the top of the line of the HalfLytely® bottle. You may add the flavoring packet that comes with the prep for better taste. Cap the bottle and shake to dissolve the powder. Then refrigerate for later use (tastes better cold).

Noon: Take 2 Bisacodyl tablets with water. DO NOT crush or chew the tablets. DO NOT take Bisacodyl tablets within one hour of taking any antacid. Usually within 1-6 hours, you will need to have a bowel movement. You will want to ensure you are in proximity to a restroom for remainder of bowel preparation.

Lunch should consist of clear liquids only (water or juices such as cranberry or apple). Do not take any milk products.

Afternoon: At 4 pm (or 4 hours after taking the Bisacodyl tablets), remove Halflytely® from refrigerator and re-shake bottle.  Start drinking the HalfLytely® solution - one 8 ounce glass, every ten minutes until all the solution is gone. Be sure you drink all of the solution.

Evening: Dinner should consist of clear liquids only (water or juices such as cranberry or apple).  Do not take any milk products.

You may have water until midnight. After midnight, you should not have anything to eat or drink. 

Day of the Procedure

Morning medications can be taken with a small amount of water. Please do not take calcium tablets until after the procedure is completed.  If you have any questions before the exam please call Jason Barrett, RPA, at 617-243-6162.

What will happen during the exam?

You will be asked to undress and change into a hospital gown. Preliminary X-rays of your abdomen will be taken to ensure that your preparation was adequate. A radiographer will place an enema tip into your rectum while you are lying on your left side on the radiographic table. The radiologist will oversee the administration of the barium-sulfate suspension into your large bowel.

You will be asked to maneuver into various positions during the study. A number of fluoroscopic images of your large bowel will be taken. Sometimes air is introduced into the bowel to help the radiologist visualize the anatomy better.

After the fluoroscopic images are acquired, the radiologist will direct the radiographer to obtain additional radiographic images. This will require additional maneuvering of the patient into various positions. Once the imaging is complete the enema will be drained and you will be escorted to a private restroom for further evacuation of the enema.

How long will the procedure take?

This exam takes approximately 45-60 minutes to perform. It should not be painful, although you will experience bowel discomfort and the need to have a bowel movement.  

How will I get my results?

You will get the results from your doctor