This diagnostic imaging test takes an image of the large colon.
Commonly referred to as barium enemas, contrast enemas use a water soluble contrast agent to show the structure of the lower gastrointestinal tract which includes the colon on an x-ray study.
Your child will be having this test to establish the presence or absence, nature or extent of disease affecting the lower gastrointestinal tract. Imaging from colon contrast studies can reveal abnormalities related to:
This study will take approximately one hour. If age or developmentally appropriate, your child and family will first meet with a child life specialist.
We will have them change into a hospital gown and an abdominal x-ray will be obtained.
Your physician will insert an enema tip in to the rectum while your child is laying down on a fluoroscopy table moving in different positions. During this time, a contrast agent will flows in to their colon so the radiologist can take images using fluoroscopy x-ray equipment.
The enema tip will be removed and your child will use the restroom to evacuate contrast. Once that is done, a post evacuation x-ray will be taken as well.
Your child may resume normal activity, eating and drinking after exam unless otherwise specified by your physician.
Unless fluids are restricted by the doctor, they should drink more fluids than normal to help the contrast move out of their system.
Results will be available 1-2 business days on the patient portal and to your ordering physician. For your child's results, please contact the physician that ordered your test.
If you have any questions, please contact us at (804) 628-4998 and ask for a radiology technologist. If it is after hours, please call (804) 828-3699.
