Lower Gastrointestinal Series
(Barium Enema)

Diverticulitis (Diverticulosis) Slideshow

• What is a lower GI series?
• What are the risks of a lower GI series?
• How does the patient prepare for a lower GI series, and how is it performed?
• How does the patient obtain the results of a lower GI test?
• Barium Enema At A Glance

What is a lower GI series?

A lower GI series, or barium enema, is an x-ray test in which a white liquid, called barium, is placed into the rectum and colon through the anus to enhance x-ray pictures of the large bowel (colon). These x-rays are used to define normal and abnormal anatomy of the colon and rectum. Colon and rectal abnormalities that can be detected include diverticulosis, diverticulitis, abnormal colon movement, dilation of the colon, polyps, and cancers of the colon and rectum.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

Appendicitis - Appendicitis information including, complications, symptoms, and how inflammation of the appendix is diagnosed and treated Source:MedicineNet Crohn's Disease - Learn about Crohn's Disease and the causes, symptoms (including abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, fever, rectal bleeding, and more) and treatment of this chronic inflammatory disease of the intestines. Source:MedicineNet Ovarian Cancer - Read about ovarian cancer (cancer of the ovaries) warning signs, symptoms, diagnosis, risk factors, research, information, statistics, tests and treatment (surgery). Source:Government Read 27 more Barium Enema related articles ... New Colon Cancer Screening Guidelines