Lower GI Tract Examination/Barium Enema
Lower Gastrointestinal Tract Radiography(barium enema) is a dynamic fluoroscopic x-ray evaluation of the large intestine, also known as the colon. This includes the right or ascending colon, the transverse colon, and the left or descending colon and the rectum. The appendix may be seen if it is present and a portion of the small intestine may be visualized as well.
In this procedure a small amount of barium and air are introduced into the rectum so that the colon can be gently distended in order to visualize all structures.
Fluoroscopy uses x-rays to capture an image of an organ and control the amount of barium and air that is introduced.
Lower GI Tract Examination/Barium Enema Preparation
These instructions are IMPORTANT. Please follow them.
- You should tell your doctor and staff at Annex Medical Imaging about any allergies you might have to medications, and about any recent illnesses or other medical conditions.
- You will be given detailed instructions on how to prepare for your lower GI imaging. On the day before the procedure you will be asked not to eat. Drink only clear liquids like juice, tea, black coffee, cola, or broth, and avoid dairy products. After midnight, you should take nothing by mouth. You may be instructed to take a laxative (in either pill or liquid form) and to use an over-the-counter enema preparation the evening, or even a few hours before the procedure. Just follow the instructions. It is permissible to take usual prescribed oral medication with limited amounts of water.
- Once you arrive at Annex Medical Imaging, you will be asked to change into a gown before your examination. You may also be asked to remove jewelry, eyeglasses, or any metal objects that could obscure the images.
- Please let us know before your exam begins if you may be pregnant.
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Toronto, Ontario M5R 3M8
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