Video: Barium enema

Polyps can occur anywhere along your colon, as illustrated by the two that are circled in this picture. In preparation for your colon X-ray, a barium solution is used to coat your inner colon. This allows the radiologist to see a clear silhouette of the shape and condition of your entire colon. The radiologist may press firmly on your abdomen and pelvis, thus manipulating the colon for better viewing. He or she can view your colon's shape and motion on a television monitor attached to the X-ray machine and will also take X-rays from various angles.