In this Article

• What is a barium enema series?
• What are the risks of a lower barium enema?
• How does the patient prepare for a lower barium enema, and how is it performed?
• How does the patient obtain the results of a lower barium enema series?
• Barium enema series At A Glance
• Barium Enema Index

How does the patient obtain the results of a barium enema

After the X-ray films are developed by the radiology technologist, they are transmitted to the radiologist, who interprets the body structures visualized on the X-ray film. An interpretation and report of the barium enema is forwarded to the doctor who requested the test usually within one to two days. The doctor then can review the results of the report with the patient. The actual films of the examination also can be sent to the health care practitioner if necessary.

Barium Enema At A Glance

• A barium enema (lower GI series) is an X-ray procedure used to define the anatomy of the large intestine (colon) and the rectum.
  
  
• A barium enema involves filling the colon and rectum with a white liquid material (barium) often followed by air (double-contrast barium enema).
  
  
• The risks of barium enema includes discomfort, radiation exposure, and perforation of the colon.
  
  
• Women who are or may be pregnant should notify the doctor requesting the procedure and the radiology staff because of the risk of radiation exposure to the fetus.

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