Barium Enema

 

Renal

Services | Fluoroscopy

Fluoroscopy is a method of looking at structures within the body in real time, using x-rays. On normal x-rays most of the soft tissue structures of the body are of similar radiographic density. In order to visualise various soft tissue structures, the use of contrast agents is necessary. We are now able to demonstrate most of the structures in the body using contrast agents with x-ray and/or fluoroscopic techniques.

Barium Sulphate

Barium sulphate is an inert substance which can be ingested into the bowel and used to outline the various portions of the gastrointestinal tract.

Examples of barium studies are:

Barium Swallow: Investigation of swallowing disorders.

Barium Meal:Investigation of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum.

Small Bowel Study:Examines the structure and mobility of the small bowel

Barium Enema: Barium and air are introduced through a tube in the rectum to outline the large bowel.

Water Soluble and/or Intravenous Contrast Agents

Water soluble and / or intravenous contrast agents are used to study all others areas of the body, or in gastrointestinal cases where there is a risk of the leak in the bowel.

Examples of these studies are:

Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP): Contrast media injected intravenously is rapidly excreted by the kidneys. X-rays taken at intervals following the injection will display the kidneys, ureters and bladder.

Hysterosalpingography (HSG): Examination of the uterus and fallopian tubes.

Arthrography: Injection of contrast media +/- air into a joint space can help outline cartilage, ligaments, tendons and other structures. Once the contrast has been introduced into the joint more detailed images are acquired using CT or MRI.

Cystography: Contrast media is introduced into the bladder. Micturating Cystourethrography (MCU) is used in children to check for potentially damaging reflux or urine from the bladder to the kidneys.

Sialography: Contrast examination of the salivary ducts

Dacrocystography: Contrast examination of the tear ducts.

Preparation

Detailed preparation requirements will be given to you when you make your appointment.

Please note that not all examinations are available at all sites.