Imaging Center
Small Bowel Imaging
Purpose: Small bowel imaging is a diagnostic imaging procedure used to evaluate the small intestine.
Preparation: There is no advance preparation for a small bowel imaging procedure. If the small bowel is being examined along with the stomach, it will be necessary that your stomach is empty for the exam. In this instance, you will be instructed not to have anything to eat, drink, smoke or chew for at least 4 hours prior to your scheduled exam time. Prior to your exam, an ARRT Registered Radiologic Technologist will explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have. If you think you are pregnant, please inform the technologist before your exam.
What to Expect: When you arrive in the Imaging Services Department, you will be given some barium to drink. The technologist will take images of your small bowel at intervals determined by the Radiologist. They will monitor the barium as it travels through your small intestine to the large intestine. Once the barium reaches the large intestine, the technologist will ask you to lie on your back on the x-ray table while the Radiologist takes several images of your small intestine.
Post Exam Information: Before leaving the Imaging Services Department you will be given a stool softener and instructed to drink plenty of fluids throughout the remainder of the day. Your images will be reviewed by a Radiologist and the results of your exam will be forwarded to your physician. Your physician will be able to discuss the results of your exam with you.
Time Frame: Length of this examination varies from patient to patient. Approximately 90 minutes should be allowed for this procedure.
Contact for additional information: Rusk County Memorial Hospital Imaging Services Department at 715-532-5561 extension 244.