Double-contrast barium enema
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 is a silver-white metallic compound that 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[]
References[]
External links[]
- Double-contrast barium enema entry in the public domain NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms
This article incorporates public domain material from the U.S. National Cancer Institute document: "Dictionary of Cancer Terms".
Categories:
- Projectional radiography
- Digestive system imaging
- Oncology stubs