This gives a more detailed picture. The enema tube is then removed, and you again empty the colon. The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. The X-rays themselves are painless. X-rays are monitored and regulated to provide the minimum amount of radiation exposure needed to produce the image.
Most experts feel that the risk is low compared with the benefits.
Pregnant women and children are more sensitive to the risks of the X-ray . A more serious risk is a perforated colon, which is very rare. The barium enema may also be used to diagnose and evaluate the extent of inflammatory bowel diseases. An acute appendicitis or twisted loop of the bowel may also be seen. The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition.