- Colon preparation is the same as for a
barium enema - except that no rectal suppository is used on the day of
the exam. Cleansing enemas or suppositories are contraindicated because
they may produce rectal irritation and spasm.
- The patient is given 300 ml of thin
barium sulfate to drink one hour before the defecography examination.
Opacification of the pelvic small bowel makes enteroceles more
recognizable.
- Some radiologists have female patients
insert a barium saturated tampon into the vagina to mark its location;
however, a tampon can act as a pelvic strut and limit movement to the
anterior rectal wall. Thus, many practitioners now use either liquid
barium or a sterile vaginal gel mixed with water-soluble contrast medium
as a vaginal marker. Loss of vaginal contrast agent is reduced by
placing a folded gauze square in the introitus.
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