What is a Contrast Enema?
This is a test that uses X-rays and a special kind of enema solution and / or air to take pictures of the colon or large bowel, which is the lower part of the intestines. The test shows the doctor if there are abnormalities of the colon or distal small intestine.
What is Fluoroscopy?
Fluoroscopy is a type of imaging that uses X-ray pictures to look inside the body. Like a video, these pictures are real time, live, moving images.
What is a Contrast Enema?
A fluoroscopy exam that takes pictures as the patient’s rectum and bowel are filled with a clear liquid called contrast. The contrast goes into the bowel using a small and flexible tube placed into the rectum.
What Should You Know Before a Contrast Enema?
- Arrive 15 minutes before your child’s appointment time.
- Bring extra clothes, diapers or pull-ups.
- No special patient preparation is required (your child may change into a gown).
- Total estimated exam time is 60-90 minutes.
- Siblings and other children will not be allowed in the exam room. Please make arrangements for childcare.
- Child Life specialists may be available to provide preparation and support during the exam.
What Should You Know During a Contrast Enema?
- A parent or caregiver can stay close to your child during the entire exam holding hands, talking and providing comfort.
- Your child will lay down on the procedure bed and a technologist may take an X-ray picture of their belly.
- Your child will be positioned laying on their side.
- A small, soft tube is inserted into the rectum.
- The liquid contrast will flow in through the tube.
- The technologist and other staff may help hold the tube in place.
- The radiologist will take fluoroscopy pictures to watch the contrast move through the bowel.
- Your child may be positioned laying on their side, back or belly.
- The tube will be removed, and your child will release (poop) the contrast in a diaper, pull-up or the toilet.
- Another X-ray picture of the belly may be taken after “pooping.”
What Should You Know After a Contrast Enema?
- Your child may be cleaned with wipes, warm water and / or washcloths.
- Your child may continue to feel the urge to “poop” and need diaper changes or to use the bathroom more frequently.
- Your child should drink fluids to prevent dehydration.
- The results will be available to the ordering doctor within 24 hours.
