A fluoroscopic (real-time) type of X-ray of the small intestine, using a barium-based liquid contrast. The contrast material is infused through a tube that is passed through the nose (or mouth) down into and through the stomach, until the tip reaches beginning of the small intestine, known as the duodenum.

X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation (like light). They are of higher energy, however, and can penetrate the body to form an image on film. Structures that are dense (such as bone and barium contrast) appear white, less dense things like air will be black, and other structures will be shades of gray.

The pictures in an enteroclysis study are displayed on a fluoroscopic monitor (similar to a television screen) in "real time" as the contrast moves through bowel structures. Periodic "still pictures" are used to obtain a film record.

This test is done in a hospital radiology department. A tube is placed through your nose (or mouth) and manipulated past the stomach into the small intestine. This may require periodic fluoroscopic examination to determine the correct placement of the tube. Contrast (a mixture of barium and methylcellulose) is then given through the tube directly into the bowel. The liquid contrast is infused by a rate controlled pump. The passage of the barium through the small intestine is monitored on the fluoroscope screen. Pictures are taken in a variety of positions. The duration of the test is variable, but may take several hours to complete.

A clear liquid diet is suggested for at least 24 hours before the test. Laxatives may be prescribed to ensure that the bowel is clear of any particles that limit the study. All medications that slow gastric motility (normal movement), including narcotic analgesics should be discontinued at least on the day of the examination. Consult with your health care provider to determine if this applies to you. Particularly anxious patients may require conscious sedation.

You will be asked to remove all jewelry before the examination and you will wear a hospital gown. You must sign a consent form.

Infants and children:
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. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:

• Infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
• Toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
• Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
• Schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
• Adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

Placement of the tube into the nose and throat may be uncomfortable. Infusion of the contrast material may cause a feeling of abdominal fullness.

This test is performed to examine the small bowel. It may identify lesions suspected on prior upper GI (gastrointestinal) X-ray series. It is the most complete means of demonstrating that the small intestine is normal, when abnormality is suspected.

The small intestine size and contours are unremarkable. Contrast travels through the bowel at a normal rate without any sign of obstruction.

There are many abnormalities of the small intestine that may be identified with enteroclysis. Some of these include:

• Malabsorption states
• Partial, low grade, or intermittent small bowel obstruction
• Inflammation of the small bowel (such as Crohn's disease)
• Intestinal stricture
• Small bowel disorders in patients with gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding who have a normal upper GI X-ray series and barium enema
• Primary or metastatic tumors of the small intestine

You should always discuss the significance of abnormal findings with your health care provider.

The type of radiation exposure is similar to other X-ray procedures. However, the radiation exposure may be more than for many other types of X-rays, because of the length of time needed for the fluoroscopic examination. Most experts feel that the risk is low compared with the benefits. Pregnant women and children are more sensitive to the risks of X-ray radiation. If there is a chance that you are pregnant, you must inform your health care provider and an appropriate decision will be made regarding the necessity of the procedure.

Rare complications include allergic reactions to medications prescribed for the examination. You should consult with your health care provider to determine any known drug sensitivities. Another very rare complication is possible injury to bowel structures during the study.

Barium may cause constipation. Consult your health care provider if the barium has not passed through your system by 2 or 3 days after the exam.