Question

Discuss the following radiological procedures briefly:
Barium enema.

Hint:

Barium enema is a valuable diagnostic tool, but it is now largely replaced by more advanced imaging techniques like CT colonography and colonoscopy.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding Barium Enema.
Barium enema is a radiological procedure used to examine the lower gastrointestinal tract, particularly the colon and rectum. In this procedure, a contrast medium containing barium sulfate is introduced into the colon through the rectum. The barium absorbs X-rays and appears white on the X-ray film, highlighting the inner surface of the bowel. Barium enema helps to detect abnormalities such as tumors, polyps, inflammation, or strictures in the colon. It is typically used for diagnosing conditions like colorectal cancer, Crohn's disease, and diverticulosis.

Step 2: Procedure.
The patient is asked to lie on an X-ray table while the contrast medium is inserted through a tube into the rectum. X-ray images are taken as the barium moves through the colon. In some cases, a double-contrast technique is used, where air is introduced after barium to provide clearer images of the mucosal lining.