$Unique_ID{BRK00533}
$Pretitle{Special Procedures and Laboratory Tests, Digestive System}
$Title{Curious About the Reliability of a Barium Enema}
$Subject{enema barium colonoscopy cancer polyps}
$Volume{P-12, I-12}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Curious About the Reliability of a Barium Enema


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QUESTION:  I am curious about the reliability of a barium enema in diagnosing
intestinal disease.  If all the stuff they put in you is a dye, how does that
tell the doctors where disease may be present?  What do they see on the x-rays
that permits them to arrive at any conclusions?

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ANSWER:  Although frequently referred to as a "dye", the truth is barium is a
substance that is not transparent to x-rays, and shows up as a white mass
filling the large intestines.  It provides a clear outline of the interior
surfaces of the colon and rectum, and can reveal the presence of growths, such
as cancerous tumors or benign polyps, areas of inflammation, as well as the
small pockets or pouches that signify diverticulosis.  During the procedure,
the barium is allowed to flow out, but some still remains clinging to the
walls of the intestine to provide another view to the examining radiologist,
and help in diagnosing any pathology present.  The development of colonoscopy,
in which a flexible telescope like instrument is used to view the intestinal
lining directly, has replaced the use of the barium enema in many instances.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
