Enteroclysis

Enteroclysis: What Is It?

Enteroclysis is an imaging procedure in which a liquid solution is injected into the large intestine (colon) for the purpose of medical diagnosis. This solution, or enteric contrast material, is composed of a safe radiopaque material. Once inside the colon, the liquid solution moves through the intestines and outlines the interior of the colon on an X-ray or CT scan.

What Is Involved in the Preparation?

Before the procedure, the patient is generally asked to avoid eating or drinking for at least six hours. During the procedure, they will be asked to lay in varying positions, such as on their sides and stomach, as the radiologist slowly injects the contrast material. Generally, the patient will be asked to hold their breath at certain points during the procedure and will be asked to empty their bladder prior to the procedure.

Types of Enteroclysis

The two main types of enteroclysis are upper enteroclysis and lower enteroclysis. Upper enteroclysis is used to examine the upper gastrointestinal tract, including the small bowel, the stomach, and the duodenum. Lower enteroclysis is used to examine the lower gastrointestinal tract, including the large intestine (colon).

When Is Enteroclysis Used?

Enteroclysis is used when other imaging procedures, such as X-rays and CT scans, cannot provide sufficient visuals of the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, enteroclysis is also used when doctors need to assess the integrity of the walls of the intestines for such conditions as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and cancer.

Risks Involved with Enteroclysis

Enteroclysis is generally considered to be a safe procedure, with few risks involved. Potential risks include:

• Tearing of the intestine caused by the contrast material
• Allergic reactions to the contrast material
• Kidney damage caused by the contrast material

Conclusion

Enteroclysis is an imaging procedure in which a contrast material is injected into the large intestine to obtain an X-ray or CT scan of the gastrointestinal tract. It is used in cases in which other imaging procedures cannot provide sufficient visuals of the digestive system. Upper enteroclysis is used to examine the upper gastrointestinal tract, including the small bowel, the stomach, and the duodenum, and lower enteroclysis is used to examine the lower gastrointestinal tract, which includes the large intestine. While considered to be a safe procedure, there are potential risks such as tearing of the intestine, allergic reactions, and kidney damage. Therefore, it is important to consult with a physician or radiologist prior to undergoing enteroclysis.