PREPARATION & RESOURCES

For this X-ray of your large intestine (colon), your physician will instruct you to use the Dulcolax prep kit with cleansing enema the evening before your exam. You should not eat food or drink for 8 hours before your exam. A liquid containing barium will be inserted into the colon to coat the lining and make abnormalities visible on X-ray.

Typically, no prep is needed for this test. However, be sure to follow any specific instructions from your physician. You will drink a barium contrast solution to coat and visualize your throat and esophagus on X-ray as you swallow.

Patients should follow a soft or low-residue diet for 2 days before their exam. No food or drink from the evening meal on the night before your exam (at least 8 hours). Be sure to empty your bladder before the exam. You will drink a barium milkshake for the X-ray series.

Typically, you will be instructed to eat a soft-food diet for 2 days before your exam. No food or drink for 8 hours before the exam. No smoking or chewing gum after 12 midnight the night before your exam. Juices that may be produced in your stomach can dilute the barium that you will swallow to visualize the esophagus, stomach and the first part of the small intestine.

Contrast material, also known as dye, is often used during a CT scan to enhance the visibility of organs, muscles, blood vessels and other soft tissues. The contrast can be given intravenously (IV) to highlight blood vessels or as an oral contrast to highlight structures in the digestive system. You should have only clear liquids for 4 hours before your exam. Hydrate with at least 16 ounces of water 2 hours before your exam.

1. Do not eat after midnight on the day of the procedure.
2. You may have clear liquids (such as water, apple juice, cranberry juice, Sprite, 7UP or ginger ale) until 10:30 a.m. on the morning of your procedure.
3. Continue taking your daily medications unless directed otherwise by your physician or interventional radiologist.
4. Please check in at Patient Registration upon arrival at Holy Cross Hospital.
5. You MUST have someone to drive you home after your procedure. Taxis, buses and Metro are NOT acceptable. Please make arrangements in advance.
6. Rest for the remainder of the day after your procedure.
7. No heavy lifting or exercise for 2-3 days after your procedure.
8. If you have questions, call us at 301-754-7355.