The ‘double contrast’ refers to the use of positive and negative contrast agents to increase the sensitivity of the examination.

A procedure in which x-rays of the colon and rectum are taken after a liquid containing barium is put into the rectum. Barium is a silver-white metallic compound that outlines the colon and rectum on an x-ray and helps show abnormalities.

The barium is inserted into the colon and then drained out, with only a thin layer of barium remaining on the colon wall. The colon is then filled with air to expand the colon and provide a more detailed view of the inner lining of the colon. This is called “double contrast” or “air contrast” barium enema.

A double-contrast barium enema is a form of contrast radiography in which x-rays of the colon and rectum are taken using two forms of contrast to make the structures easier to see. A liquid containing barium (that is, a radiocontrast agent) is put into the rectum.

Although these three types of views are incorporated to varying degrees in both single- and double-contrast examinations, single-contrast studies rely more heavily on diagnostic fluoroscopy, mucosal relief, and barium filling, whereas double-contrast studies emphasize the interpretation of double-contrast images …

The double contrast technique is preferred over the single contrast technique when one wants a better visualization of the mucosa. In the past it had been used for colon cancer (e.g. polyp) screening, especially as a follow-up for failed colonoscopies, but CT colonography has effectively replaced it for that role.

Lie on your side on the towel, and pull your knees under your abdomen and chest. Gently insert the lubricated tube up to 4 inches into your rectum. Once the tube is secure, gently squeeze the contents of the enema bag or allow it to flow into your body with gravity’s help. When the bag is empty, slowly remove the tube.

“Double contrast” refers to imaging with the positive contrast of barium sulfate contrast medium (rarely water-soluble iodinated contrast) as well as with the negative contrast of gas (CO2 preferable). An exam with only a positive contrast agent is considered a single contrast barium enema.

The facts. The Double-Contrast Barium Enema (also called DCBE or barium enema) uses X-rays to find abnormal growths in the colon. Barium, a silver-white metallic compound, is used to outline the colon and rectum on the X-ray. Air is then passed through the same tube to further enhance the X-ray.

DOUBLE CONTRAST BARIUM ENEMA: TECHNIQUE AND ANATOMY – The films were selected from different patients to best demonstrate the anatomy of the colon and the technique for performing a double contrast barium enema.

The barium enema test takes around an hour to complete.

This barium enema also helps the radiologist see the size and shape of the colon and rectum. You may be uncomfortable during the barium enema. The barium will cause fullness and pressure in your abdomen and will make you feel the urge to have a bowel movement.

Are there any side-effects or risks from a barium enema? Some people feel a little sickly or have stomach cramps for a few hours afterwards. The barium may make you constipated. If you had an injection to relax the muscles in your large bowel (colon), it may cause some blurring of your vision for an hour or so. The barium does not get absorbed into the body.

As with most medical tests, there are some barium enema side effects. The most common barium enema side effects include problems with defecation. Some people experience constipation after the procedure while others may experience fecal incontinence. This varies from case to case and is usually temporary, resolving itself within 48 hours.