Small Bowel X-Ray

A small bowel x-ray is an exam using barium to visualize the small bowel. It is used to detect abnormalities or obstructions in your small bowel.

Radiation is used for this exam. Please notify your doctor if you are pregnant.

Before the Exam
Before your small bowel x-ray, have nothing to eat or drink after midnight. Continue to take your medications with a sip of water up until 4 hours before the exam. If you are diabetic, your doctor may adjust your diabetic agents with your doctor.

During the Exam
During the exam you will be given barium to drink. Barium is a liquid that outlines the bowel. X-rays are then taken at timed intervals as the barium moves through your bowel. Everyone is different, so transit time of the barium through the small bowel is variable. Typically the exam takes between 1 and 2 hours but it may be longer.

After the Exam
After your exam you may resume your regular diet. Your stools may be light colored or chalky, this is normal. Drink plenty of fluids (if you are not on a fluid restriction) to help move the barium through your system, otherwise you may become constipated. If you have not had a bowel movement in three days after the exam, contact your doctor. You may be instructed to use a laxative.

Your doctor will be contacted with the results of your test and will discuss the results with you.

Providing safe, quality patient care is our highest priority. To help ensure quality and safety, we ask that you do not bring young children with you to your appointments, as children are not allowed to accompany you during Imaging procedures. Staff is unable to monitor your child in your absence.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your doctor or contact Imaging Services at (320) 255-5619.

Your appointment is on:

Date: ________________ Time: ________________ at the following location:

____ St. Cloud Hospital - please check in at Door A / South Entrance

____ CentraCare Health Plaza - please check in at Woodlands Entrance