Double-contrast barium enema

Double-contrast barium enema
Human intestinal tract, as imaged via double-contrast barium enema
Purpose	radiography which uses 2 forms of contrast for better image

A double-contrast barium enema is a form of contrast radiography in which x-rays of the colon and rectum are taken using two forms of contrast to make the structures easier to see.^[1] A liquid containing barium (that is, a radiocontrast agent) is put into the rectum. Barium (usually as a sulfate) outlines the colon and rectum on an x-ray and helps show abnormalities. Air is also put into the rectum and colon to further enhance the x-ray.

Double-contrast barium enemas are less invasive than a colonoscopy and have comparatively fewer issues in a viable large bowel.^[2]

See also

• Contrast agent
• Lower gastrointestinal series

References

External links

• Double-contrast barium enema entry in the public domain NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms

 This article incorporates public domain material from Dictionary of Cancer Terms. U.S. National Cancer Institute.

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