Barium Enema Preparation

• To obtain an accurate x-ray image of the contours of the colon, fecal material must be cleared. This is achieved by a cleansing enema.
  
  
  • Also, a laxative may be given orally to clear the colon of fecal material that may interfere with the procedure and the test interpretation.
    
    
  • Usually, you will not be allowed to take food or fluid after midnight the night before your procedure. You may be given fluids by IV that contain dextrose (sugar) just prior to the test.