Double contrast barium enema (DCBE) technique is
a method of imaging the colon with fluoroscopy
. “Double contrast” refers to imaging with the positive contrast of barium sulfate contrast medium (rarely water-soluble iodinated contrast) as well as with the negative contrast of gas (CO
2
preferable).
How is double contrast barium enema done?
The Double-Contrast Barium Enema (also called DCBE or barium enema) uses
X-rays to find abnormal growths in the colon
. Barium, a silver-white metallic compound, is used to outline the colon and rectum on the X-ray. Air is then passed through the same tube to further enhance the X-ray.
How is a double contrast barium enema performed?
The barium is inserted into the colon and then drained out, with only a thin layer of barium remaining on the colon wall.
The colon is then filled with air to expand the colon and provide a more detailed view of the inner lining of the colon
. This is called “double contrast” or “air contrast” barium enema.
How do you perform a barium enema in radiology?
- You lie flat on your back on the x-ray table. …
- You then lie on your side. …
- The barium flows into your colon. …
- Sometimes a small amount of air is delivered into the colon to expand it. …
- You are asked to move into different positions. …
- The enema tube is removed after the x-rays are taken.
How is a contrast enema performed?
During a contrast enema study,
a small tube is inserted into your child’s rectum and the colon and large intestine are filled with contrast material
. Once the contrast fills the colon and large intestine, a special type of x-ray technology, called fluoroscopy, is used to take pictures of these organs.
Which is better barium enema or colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy is more accurate than
barium enema in detecting polyps, cancers, and colitis. Colonoscopy also has the added advantage of being able to remove polyps and obtain biopsies (tiny tissue samples for analysis under a microscope) at the same time of the procedure.
What symptoms would lead a doctor to recommend a barium enema?
- Abdominal pain.
- Rectal bleeding.
- Changes in bowel habits.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Chronic diarrhea.
- Persistent constipation.
When do you use double contrast?
| Double-contrast barium enema | Purpose radiography which uses 2 forms of contrast for better image |
|---|
Why is it called double contrast barium enema?
Single contrast barium enema is not suitable in these situations because it is less sensitive at detecting small polyps and early changes of inflammatory bowel disease. The ‘double contrast’ refers to
the use of positive and negative contrast agents to increase the sensitivity of the examination
.
Why do we use double contrast?
The ‘double contrast’ refers to the use of
positive and negative contrast agents to increase the sensitivity of the examination
. The double contrast study is sensitive to visualize mucosal irregularities.
Why would a doctor order a barium enema?
A barium enema is an x-ray of the colon and rectum. The colon and rectum make up the large intestine, which helps the body process waste. A barium enema
helps doctors find health conditions in the colon and rectum
, such as inflammation, polyps, and cancer. Barium is a contrast medium.
How do you explain a barium enema to a patient?
A barium enema involves
filling the colon and rectum
with a white liquid material (barium) through a catheter (tube) inserted into the rectum through the anus. It is normal during the procedure to feel some fullness or mild discomfort in the abdomen.
What are the side effects of barium enema?
laxative side effects – side effects such as feeling sick, a mild headache and bloating are common, but shouldn’t last long. barium side effects – barium is usually harmless, but it can
cause an upset stomach or constipation
, and can cause an allergic reaction in very rare cases.
How long do you poop after Fleet enema?
Use it only as directed by your doctor. Sodium phosphate is a saline laxative that is thought to work by increasing fluid in the small intestine. It usually causes a bowel movement after
1 to 5 minutes
.Do not use this medication in children younger than 2 years of age.
How long does it take for barium to pass through your system?
Often, additional X-rays are made after the barium has been excreted from the bowel, which is
usually one or more days after
the procedure. After the procedure, a small amount of barium will be expelled from the body immediately. The remainder of the liquid is later excreted in the stool.
How many enemas can you do in a week?
The enema can be used up to three days in a row before consulting a physician. If you have not received relief after three days of use, please contact your doctor. Using
more than one enema within 24 hours
can be harmful.
