BARIUM ENEMA
Here are some answers to questions commonly asked about a barium enema.
If you have any further questions, please ask your referring doctor, or the staff at Illawarra Radiology Group
What is a barium enema?
This is an examination to visualise the large bowel or colon. To demonstrate this adequately, you will need to follow a preparation to empty the bowel. This will be given to you when making your appointment.
How do I make an appointment?
Please call in or phone the branches listed below most convenient for you.
If you have any special needs, e.g. diabetes, please notify the staff when making your
appointment.
When is it used?
There are some condition s that can be examined using this procedure. Your referring doctor will explain why this is appropriate for you. The examination demonstrates the anatomy of the large bowel and also gives an indication of possible abnormalities.
Do I need to do anything?
When you make an appointment, you will be given instructions on how to prepare your bowel. This will include a special diet and a laxative drink. The examination is usually takes about half an hour.
What happens?
To see the bowel, the radiologist will use a mixture of liquid barium and air which is run into the bowel via a small tube inserted into the back passage. Optimal visualisation of the lining of the bowel is gained when coated with barium and distended by air. This will give you the feeling of being full of “wind”. During the procedure, you will be asked to lie on the x-ray table and roll into a variety of positions to ensure the bowel is well coated with barium and air mixture As soon as all the films have been taken, most of the air and fluid are drained away, the tube is removed and you may go to the toilet. This will relieve any discomfort you may be feeling. After the test, it is advisable to drink extra fluids for several days to help clear the barium from your bowel. You may eat normally.
Will I feel anything?
There may be some discomfort during the procedure. The radiologist may need to give you a small injection of buscopan to relax the bowel.
Are there any side effects?
The injection of buscopan may cause blurred vision for about 15 minutes. If this happens, do not drive until vision is clear.
Barium enemas are available at Illawarra Radiology Group at the following branches:
Shellharbour, Wollongong
PLEASE REMEMBER TO BRING YOUR REFERRAL AND ANY PREVIOUS FILMS WITH YOU.
BARIUM MEAL
What is barium meal/swallow?
Both a barium swallow and a barium meal test involve you swallowing a liquid suspension of barium sulphate before a series of x-rays are taken of your upper digestive tract.
What happens?
In a barium meal test, x-ray images are taken of your stomach and the beginning of your duodenum
(the beginning of your small intestine, the passageway that takes food away from your stomach).
Barium is a naturally occurring element that appears white on x-ray. When swallowed, the barium coats the wall of the digestive tract, which allows the shape of your upper digestive tract to be outlined on an x-ray. Without the barium your upper digestive tract would be barely visible on x-ray.
Why are these tests done?
A barium test may be suggested if you are having difficulty swallowing, or if you have chest pain or
reflux (backflow of stomach juices into the lower part of the oesophagus), vomiting, indigestion and/or pain in your abdomen. These tests help doctors to diagnose inflammation, ulcers or tumours in the oesophagus, stomach or duodenum.
How do I prepare for these tests?
You will need to prepare for the examination by not eating, drinking or smoking from 12 midnight the
night prior to your appointment. This ensures your stomach is empty as any food or fluid taken before
the examination may give misleading results. Essential medication may be taken with a small sip of water. If you have special needs e.g. diabetes, please notify the staff when making your appointment.
How long will it take?
The examination is usually completed in 20 minutes, unless your doctor wants the small intestine to be examined, which may take a further 2-3 hours, depending on the speed of fluid throughout the bowel.
Barium tests are available at Illawarra Radiology Group at the following branches:
Shellharbour, Wollongong
PLEASE REMEMBER TO BRING YOUR REFERRAL AND PREVIOUS FILMS WITH YOU.
IVP (Intravenous Pyelogram)
What is an IVP?
An IVP (intravenous pyelogram) is an x-rayexamination of the urinary tract (kidneys, uterers and bladder). As well as showing the size and shape of these structures, it also gives an indication of how well they are functioning.
Do I need to do anything?
For best results, the bowel needs to be clear. Epson salts are taken at 8pm the night before, then nothing to eat or drink for four hours before your appointment.
What happens?
As kidneys and bladder are soft tissue structures do not show up very clearly on x-ray, it is necessary to
inject a contrast medium (x-ray dye) to get a clear picture. The dye is not radioactive. Non-ionic contrast is used, which is much safer than conventional ionic ones, ensuring you receive the best quality medical care. Some preliminary plain films are taken and then an injection is given into a vein in back of the hand or the elbow. The contrast which circulates through the blood stream, is filtered out by the kidneys and then passes down the uterers to the bladder. Films are taken at regular intervals to assess the function of the kidneys. Because the kidneys move when you breathe, you will be asked to briefly hold your breath to avoid possible blurring of the images, resulting in loss of detail. A wide band may be put around the waist and tightened for a few minutes to stop the contrast from draining into the bladder too quickly. This is most important as it assists in providing better pictures of the kidneys. Before the end of the examination, you will be asked to empty your bladder and then the last film is taken.
How long will it take?
The examination will take approximately 1 hour. In some cases, delayed films may need to be taken
which may prolong the procedure.
Are there any side effects?
As with all injections and medications, there is a very small chance of allergy to contrast medium (xray dye). Therefore, please inform the staff of any allergies before the injection is given. You will be
required to fill out a brief questionnaire prior to the test, regarding your medical history. You may drive
afterwards, as the injection does not affect your eyesight and you may return to normal duties straightaway.
IVPS’ are available at Illawarra Radiology Group at the following branches:
Shellharbour, Wollongong and Corrimal
MAMMOGRAM
What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is a breast x-ray which shows thetissues of the breast and the axillary (armpit) area.
When is it used?
Diagnostic mammography is performed in order to evaluate a breast complaint or abnormality detected
by physical exam or routine screening mammography. Diagnostic mammography is different from screening mammography in that additional views of the breast are usually taken, as opposed to two views typically taken with screening mammography.
Do I need to do anything?
For your convenience, we advise you wear a two piece outfit as you will need to undress to the waist.
Please do not wear any talcum powder or deodorant to your appointment, as this may show on the film.
What happens?
The x-ray machine has been especially designed to compress the breasts between two plates that show
the breast tissue as clearly as possible. One of our experienced staff will take your x-ray and answer
any questions you may have about the test. Two films are routinely taken of each breast and
sometimes extra films are required to clarify certain areas. This is not uncommon and should not alarm
you. Ultrasound is often requested at the same time as a mammogram and this is helpful to show cysts and gives a more thorough examination where breast tissue is dense. On occasions, further examinations will be necessary and this would be a decision made by your doctor or specialist after he has seen the report e.g. fine needle aspiration or core biopsy, where small samples of tissue are taken and examined by the pathologist.
How long will it take?
The examination takes approximately 30 minutes. The mammogram films and report will usually be
delivered to your doctor. Please note that in order for the patient to receive a medicare rebate on mammograms, a clinical history with reason for the examination must be included on the referral form.
Mammograms for the purpose of screening and HRT are NOT eligible for medicare rebate and will incur a non-rebatable fee.
Mammograms are available at IllawarraRadiology Group at the following branches:
Shellharbour and Wollongong
MRI
What is a MRI scan?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a new medical technology that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to allow doctors to visualise certain anatomical structures more clearly than with other modalities. The pictures produced by this new technology may help your doctor detect and define the differences between healthy and diseased tissue. Conditions that a few years ago might only have been detectable from physical signs and symptoms now may be clearly seen, and doctors will have more time and better information to determine the most appropriate treatment.
What happens?
The MRI machine may look intimidating because of its size, but there is no need to be frightened. Before the scan the technician will help you onto the examination table. You will be positioned comfortably, generally with your arms at your sides. The examination table will then slide into the magnet. While the machine is in operation you will hear intermittent humming and thumping sounds these are quite normal and should be no cause for alarm. The exam usually takes about 30 minutes,
sometimes less depending on the part of the body being imaged. If you need any assistance
throughout the exam, all you need to do is ask. In fact you can speak to the technician throughout the
exam and you will be given a buzzer should you
have any problems during the scan. The images that have been taken will be reviewed for quality. When the quality is acceptable you may get dressed and prepare to leave. You may then resume your normal daily activities.
Do I need to have an injection?
In some instances the doctor may decide to order an image enhanced agent. This is a liquid that is
injected into a vein in the arm or leg. It may help to make the details of MR imaging more clearer. It
does not mean that anything is wrong with you. Please do not become concerned. It simply means the doctor would like a clearer picture.
What do I need to do on the day of my examination?
Preparing for your MRI exam is relatively simple. You may eat normally and take any prescribed
medication. Plan to arrive at our centre 15-20 minutes earlier than your appointment. When you arrive you will be asked questions about your medical history. In order to provide you with the best possible care, you may be asked the following questions:
Do you weigh 136kg or more?
Can you lie flat comfortably?
Do you suffer from claustrophobia?
Are you pregnant?
MRI scans are generally not recommended for
pregnant women.
Do you have any medical devices such as:
A copper containing intra-uterine contraceptive
device?
Cardiac pacemaker?
Cerebral aneurism clip?
Meal implants or other surgical clips?
Neurostimulators?
Hearing aid?
Do you have any metal shrapnel in your body or
metal fragments in your eyes? Metal devices cause interference
MRI is available at Illawarra Radiology Group at the following branches:
Wollongong
OBSTETRIC ULTRASOUND
What is obstetric ultrasound?
Ultrasound examinations use sound waves to produce an image which can be interpreted by the
Radiologist. High frequency sound is passed into the body from an ultrasound probe and the sound is reflected off the internal organs. The ultrasound machine changes the returning echoes into visible images and displays them on a screen. From here, they can be recorded on film. An obstetric ultrasound examination may provide valuable information about your pregnancy which helps ensure a successful outcome for you and your baby. Two techniques can be used- an abdominal scan or
a vaginal scan. Transvaginal ultrasound is sometimes used in early pregnancy (less than 12 weeks).
When is it used?
An ultrasound examination can determine the approximate due date for your baby. It can also check the number of babies and assesses you condition if there has been any unexpected bleeding. Ultrasound is used to assess the growth and well being of your baby. It can show anatomy and help to check for any possible abnormalities.
What happens?
Examinations are performed by a trained sonographer or doctor, with you lying on your back. A small amount of water soluble gel is used to achieve a good contact of the ultrasound probe. The probe is moved over the skin, sending and receiving ultrasound pulses which are converted into images.Transvaginal ultrasound scans use a small probe which is inserted into the vagina, and is covered by a protective cover (usually a condom). You will be asked to sign a consent form after the
procedure is explained to you. The probe is lubricated with ultrasound gel and inserted into the vagina by the examiner or you may prefer to insert it yourself as you would a tampon. You may request a third person be present in the room.
Do I need to do anything?
You will be required to empty your bladder.
Then drink 800mls of water so that it is finished an hour before you present at IRG. Your bladder needs to be very full for the scan to be successfull.
Things which will prevent your bladder filling:
If you do not finish the whole 800 ml of water early enough.
If you normally take Lasix, you must contiune to do so.
If you do not normally drink much water, try to drink 1-2 litres of water the day before your study so
that you start your preparation well hydrated.
DO NOT EMPTY YOUR BLADDER IN THE HOUR BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT. You may eat normally but minimise salt and salty food intake for 24 hours before your study.
How long will it take?
The examination is usually completed in 30 minutes.
Ultrasounds are available at Illawarra Radiology Group at the following branches:
Shellharbour, Warrawong, Wollongong and Corrimal
PELVIC ULTRASOUND
What is pelvic ultrasound?
Ultrasound examinations use sound waves to produce an image which the Radiologist can interpret. Ultrasounds use high frequency sound waves which pass into the body from an ultrasound probe and the sound is reflected off the internal organs. The ultrasound machine changes the returning echoes into visible images and displays them on a television screen, which can be recorded on a film.
A full bladder is necessary to lift the bowel out of the pelvis, thereby allowing the sound waves to pass through the liquid in the bladder so that images of the uterus and ovaries may be obtained. Sometimes a transvaginal scan may be recommended for a more accurate diagnosis to be made. The abdominal approach gives a panoramic view of all pelvic organs, showing their size and
relationship to each other. Because the probe is closer to the organs being examined, more detail may sometimes be shown with a transvaginal scan.
Do I need to do anything?
You will be required to empty your bladder.
Then drink 800mls of water so that it is finished an hour before you present at IRG. Your bladder needs to be very full for the scan to be successfull.
Things which will prevent your bladder filling:
If you do not finish the whole 800 ml of water early enough.
If you normally take Lasix, you must contiune to do so.
If you do not normally drink much water, try to drink 1-2 litres of water the day before your study so
that you start your preparation well hydrated.
DO NOT EMPTY YOUR BLADDER IN THE HOUR BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT. You may eat normally but minimise salt and salty food intake for 24 hours before your study.
What happens?
Pelvic ultrasound is performed with you lying down. A small amount of water soluble gel is spread over the area to be examined, to facilitate good contact of the ultrasound probe, helping to produce the best possible images. The probe is moved over the area to be investigated. Transvaginal scans. The radiologist will decide if a transvaginal scan is necessary. This will be done by a female radiographer or the doctor. You may request a third person be present in the room. A consent form is signed. A small transducer (probe) is inserted into the vagina, covered with a protective sheath, usually a condom, and lubricated with gel. The transducer is inserted by the examiner, or you may prefer to insert it yourself.
Are there any side effects? There are no currently known significant harmful effects from the use of diagnostic ultrasound.
Ultrasounds are available at Illawarra Radiology Group at the following branches:
Shellharbour, Warrawong, Wollongong and Corrimal
VASCULAR DOPPLER ULTRASOUND
What is an ultrasound?
Ultrasound examinations use sound waves to produce an image which the Radiologist can interpret.
Ultrasound is a high frequency sound which passes into the body from an ultrasound probe and the
sound is reflected off the internal structures. The ultrasound machine changes the returning echoes into visible images and displays them on a screen, which can then be recorded onto film. Doppler ultrasound is where the ultrasound equipment uses the Doppler effect to assess the blood flow in the arteries and veins. Changes in wave lengths of the sound waves can be utilised to assess the speed and direction of blood flow in the arteries and veins.
When is it used?
Doppler ultrasound is used to assess the carotid arteries in the neck, arteries and veins in the arms
and legs and many major vessels in the abdomen.
Do I need to do anything?
Clean shaven neck for carotid Doppler is preferred.
How is it done?
These examinations are performed by a highly qualified sonographer or doctor.
The examination is performed with you lying, sitting or standing, depending on what area is to be examined. A small amount of water soluble gel is spread over the area to ensure good transducer
contact. The transducer is moved over the skin, sending and receiving ultrasound pulses, which are converted into images on the monitor. You will be able to hear the sound waves as they return from the blood vessels, sounding like a whooshing noise. You may also see a graphic display of the Doppler
information on the monitor.
Will I feel anything?
Doppler ultrasound should not hurt, if however, the gentle pressure of the transducer causes you nay
discomfort, you should mention this to the person performing the scan.
How long will it take?
The examination takes about ½ hour to 1 hour.
Are there any side effects?
There are no currently known significant harmful side effects from the use of diagnostic ultrasound.
Doppler Ultrasounds are available at Illawarra Radiology Group at the following branches:
Shellharbour, Wollongong and Corrimal