Michael Swanwicks Periodic Table of Science Fiction 56 Ba Barium 137.33What to Expect From Your Barium Enema Introduction So youre going to have a barium enema Relax. Though most people think a barium enema BE isan extreme procedure the truth is that its not. Rather it is a simple fluoroscopic test usedto study the large bowel or colon. There are few complications and youll be able to returnhome or to work immediately after the procedure. Whats Involved The procedure is simplicity itself. First you lie face-down on the X-ray table. A technologistthen inserts an enema tip into your rectum and inflates a balloon at the end of the enema tube.This causes the rectum to distend making you feel as if you need to defecate. Knowing thatthis is a false sensation you will easily be able to ignore it. Now the radiologist opens thevalve on the tube coming from the barium bag. With the introduction of the barium inside youthe feeling of urgency will increase. Continue to ignore it. Using fluoroscopy the radiologistcan now see the end of the large bowel where the cramping occurs. This feeling should easequickly. If it doesnt barium may have to be expelled from the colon and the colon refilled.It may be necessary to inject glucagon a bowel relaxant through a 25 gauge needle into a veinin your arm. During this time feel free to chat with the radiologist and technologist. Maintain a positiveattitude. Tell a few jokes. The radiologist will take several spot films of the fluoroscopy.These will become a part of your medical record and used to decide if surgery is necessary. Andthats all Afterwards The balloon will be deflated the enema tip removed and after a quick trip to the bathroomyou may get dressed and resume your normal activities. Privacy Traditionally such sensitive medical procedures have been held confidential between patientand doctor. The Freedom of Medical Information Act of 2014 however changed all that. Youshould be aware that detailed information about your enema will be posted on the world wideweb including X-rays photographic stills and streaming video of the procedure from start tofinish You should be prepared for a certain amount of razzing including in many casespractical jokes from your family and friends. In Conclusion But in the final analysis isnt your health all that really matters ?? 2002 by Michael Swanwick and SCIFI.COM.