What is going to happen?
It is a technique in which barium (contrast medium) is introduced into the rectum following a rectal examination. The barium is mixed into a thick paste. The barium is visible in the rectum on x-rays. If the referring doctor suspects an enterocele (an internal small bowel hernia) one will be given 2 glasses of barium to drink 2 hours prior to the procedure. During the test, the patient is asked to empty the rectum whilst sitting on a commode during which x-rays are taken.
Patient preparation:
- Nil.
- If the referring doctor suspects an enterocele, patient will arrive 2 hours before to drink barium to mark the small bowel
When will I get my results?
The images will be stored on a disc which you can take together with a report to your doctor.