The opaque enema is a diagnostic test that uses x-rays and contrasts, usually barium sulfate, to study the shape and function of the large, straight intestine and thus detect possible intestinal problems, such as diverticulitis or polyps, for example.
The opaque enema test can be done in adults and children and can be divided into a simple opaque enema, using a single contrast, and an opaque enema with double contrast, when using various types of contrast.
- To perform the test.
- It is important for the person to follow the doctor’s recommendations.
- Such as fasting and bowel cleansing so that the intestine can be viewed correctly.
Examination of an opaque enema is indicated to look for possible changes in the intestine, so the gastroenterologist may recommend its action in case of suspected colitis, bowel cancer, tumors in the intestine, diverticulitis that is inflammation of the folds of the intestinal walls, is characterized by the crooked intestine or the presence of intestinal polyps.
In children, indications of the opaque enema test may include chronic constipation, chronic diarrhea, bloody stools, or chronic pain in the abdomen, as well as being indicated as a form of screening in children who have a rectal biopsy suspected. Hirschsprung syndrome, also known as congenital megacolon, in which there is no nerve fibers in the intestine, which prevents the passage of stool. Learn more about congenital megacolon.
To perform the opaque enema test, it is important that the person follow certain instructions from the doctor, such as:
These precautions are important because the intestine must be perfectly clean, without stool or gauze residues, in order to see the changes.
The preparation of an opaque enema in children older than 2 years consists of offering plenty of fluid during the day and giving magnesium milk after dinner the day before the test. If the test has been requested for chronic constipation or megacolon, no preparation is required.
The opaque enema exam lasts about 40 minutes and is done without anesthesia, which can cause the person to feel pain and discomfort during the exam. Therefore, some doctors prefer to order a colonoscopy as it is also used to evaluate the large intestine, being safer and more comfortable for the patient.
The opaque enema test is performed according to the following steps
During the exam, the person may want to defecate, especially after the air injection, and after the test, may feel swelling and pain in the abdomen and an urgent desire to defecate. It is normal for a person to suffer from constipation for a few days and that the stools turn white or gray by contrast, so it is very important to increase the consumption of foods rich in fiber, such as whole grains and unpeeled fruits. , and drink 2 liters of irrigation a day.
For children, this can also happen, so it’s important for parents to provide the child with plenty of fluids after the test.