Barium Pouch Study
A barium pouch study helps your doctor see how well your new internal pouch works. Using a soft rubber catheter, barium flows into the new pouch. When full, X-rays are taken to help see if the pouch is healed. Once healed, your next surgery can be scheduled. Please allow about an hour for the exam. You are not asleep for this test so you may drive to and from this test.
Your doctor will schedule this exam. We will call 2 days before the test to give you the details. If you do not hear from us 2 working days before your exam please call: 608-263-9729
Date: ________________________________
Check in time: ________________________
Where: Check in at the Radiology Desk, G3/3.
How do I get there? From the clinic lobby take the Atrium elevators to 3rd floor.
Getting Ready
If you have an ostomy there is no bowel prep. You may want to eat and drink less before the test so there is no worry that the ostomy bag may come off during the test.
The Exam
A soft catheter is gently put into your anal canal and barium will flow into your new pouch. As the pouch fills with barium it will come out into your ostomy bag. The doctor will watch your bowel fill with barium on a TV-like screen. The lights will be dim so the doctor can see the screen better. The whirring noise you hear is the x-ray machine taking pictures.
We may ask you to turn from side to side so we can take more pictures of your pouch. You will be asked to expel the barium in the bathroom and then we will take X-ray to make sure the pouch works well.
After the Test
You can eat and drink after the test.
Barium may leak from your inside pouch. You will want to wear a pad in your underwear for the drive home. The leakage of barium may last a few days.
Your doctor will call you with the test results.
Phone Number:
GI X-Ray: 608-263-9729
Toll Free: 1- 800-323-8942
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 06/22/2009
Copyright © 06/22/2009 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. UWH #6914
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