WebMD
Font Size
A
A
A

Air-contrast barium enema

Courtesy of Intermountain Medical Imaging, Boise, Idaho. All rights reserved.

In an air-contrast study, the colon is first filled with barium and then the barium is drained, leaving only a thin layer of barium on the wall of the colon. The colon is then filled with air. This barium enema image shows pouches (called diverticula) in the wall of the colon.

Primary Medical Reviewer Martin Gabica, MD
- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD
- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP
- Gastroenterology
Last Updated August 31, 2006

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: August 31, 2006
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
@ 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.