Lower GI series

Lower gastrointestinal series is a medical procedure used to examine and diagnose problems with the human colon. This procedure is also known as a barium enema, because it involves filling the colon with a liquid that contains the chemical element barium.

Procedure

The patient is first given a laxative or an enema to clean out the colon. Then, a small tube is inserted into the rectum, and the colon is filled with a liquid that contains barium. This liquid helps to coat the lining of the colon, making it easier to see on an X-ray.

The patient is then moved into different positions and X-ray images are taken from different angles. These images can show problems such as polyps, diverticula, or cancer.

Uses

A lower GI series can be used to diagnose a variety of conditions, including:

• Colon cancer
• Diverticulosis and diverticulitis
• Polyps
• Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease
• Bowel obstruction

Risks

As with any medical procedure, there are some risks associated with a lower GI series. These can include:

• Allergic reaction to the barium
• Infection
• Perforation of the colon
• Radiation exposure

See also

• Upper gastrointestinal series
• Colonoscopy
• Sigmoidoscopy

References

Lower GI series Resources
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