X-Ray Exams of the Digestive Tract(2)

       Today , we will continue to introduce lower GI tests.


      Lower GI tests or barium enemas are used to examine the large intestine and the rectum. For this test, barium or an iodine-containing liquid is introduced gradually into the colon through a tube inserted into the rectum. As the barium passes through the lower intestines, it fills the colon, allowing the radiologist to see growths or polyps and areas that are narrowed. The fluoroscope is held over the part of the body being examined and transmits continuous images to the video monitor.

    This lower GI testing is used to detect: Colon polyps ,Tumors ,Diverticular disease ,Gastroenteritis ,Strictures or sites of narrowing and obstruction ,Ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease and other causes of abdominal pain or blood, mucus, or pus in the stool
 
      With the barium or contrast enema, the colon is filled with a contrast material containing barium or iodine-containing contrast (a liquid that lights up on X-ray) by running it through a tube inserted into the rectum. The barium blocks X-rays; therefore the colon, when filled with the agent, shows up clearly on the X-ray picture.


      The air contrast study is slightly different. The colon is first filled with some barium, and then the colon is filled with air. This technique provides a more detailed picture of the lining of the colon, improving the procedure's ability to detect small polyps or inflammation.