Air Contrast Barium Enema

Radiology Terms and Definitions

Air Contrast Barium Enema

Air Contrast Barium Enema is used to take pictures of your digestive system; below is information on the procedure.

The difference between an Air Contrast Barium Enema and a Barium Enema is the following:

1. White liquid called barium is used with some air injected into your colon. The air is slowly pumped through the tube by the Radiologist.
2. Pictures are taken by the technologist.
3. The preparation is more demanding.

Paediatrics Department of Radiology

Radiology Standing Orders for Air Contrast Barium Enema

Please follow preparation below:

Low residue diet for two days then liquid diet only on day prior to examination.

BREAKFAST: Nothing by mouth after LIQUID breakfast on day of examination.

2 - 6 years:

Take one Bisacodyl tablet (5 mg) - whole - with water before going to bed.

A Fleet Enema (paediatric) should be given early in the morning on the day of exam and is available from drug stores without prescription.

6 - 15 years:

Two Bisacodyl tablets (5 mg) - whole - with water before going to bed on each of the two nights before the examination.

A Fleet Enema (paediatric) should be given early in the morning on the day of exam and is available from drug stores without prescription.