Enteroclysis

Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison

Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Small intestine contrast injection

Overview

Risks

Results

Enteroclysis

Definition:

Enteroclysis is a fluoroscopic (real-time) type of X-ray of the small intestine. A barium-based liquid contrast material is infused through a tube from the nose or mouth, through the esophagus, and through the stomach until the tip reaches the duodenum (beginning of the small intestine).

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X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation, as is light. They have higher energy than light, however, so they can penetrate the body to form an image on film. Structures that are dense appear white, areas that are less dense will appear black, and other structures will be shades of gray. The barium contrast used for this test is dense and can be seen clearly on X-ray.

The pictures in an enteroclysis study are displayed on a fluoroscopic monitor (similar to a television screen) in "real time" as the contrast moves through bowel structures. Periodic still pictures are taken as well.

Alternative Names:
Small bowel enema
How the test is performed:

This test is done in a hospital radiology department. Periodic fluoroscopic examination may be necessary to guide the placement of the tube.

The liquid contrast (a mixture of barium and methylcellulose) is infused by a rate-controlled pump. The passage of the barium through the small intestine is monitored on the fluoroscope screen.

Pictures are taken in a variety of positions. The duration of the test is variable, but it may take several hours to complete.

How to prepare for the test:

A clear liquid diet is suggested for at least 24 hours before the test. Laxatives may be prescribed to ensure that the bowel is clear of any particles that might interfere with the study.

Medications, including narcotic pain relievers, that slow the normal movement of the digestive system, may need to be stopped on or before the day of the examination. Your health care provider will give you instructions regarding any changes to medications. Do not modify or stop taking any medications without consulting your health care provider.

If you are anxious about the procedure you may be given a sedative beforehand. You will be asked to remove all jewelry before the examination and you will wear a hospital gown. You must sign a consent form.

For infants and children:

The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age and experience. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:

Infant test/procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
Toddler test/procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
Preschooler test/procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
Schoolage test/procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
Adolescent test/procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel:

The placement of the tube may be uncomfortable. Infusion of the contrast material may cause a feeling of abdominal fullness.

Why the test is performed:

This test is performed to examine the small bowel and may identify lesions that had been seen on prior upper GI (gastrointestinal) X-ray series. It is the most complete means of demonstrating that the small intestine is normal if an abnormality is suspected.