This information leaflet has been produced to give you general information and hopes to answer most of your questions when requiring a Water Soluble Enema. It is not intended to replace the discussion between you and the healthcare team, but may act as a starting point for discussion. If after reading it you have concerns or require further explanation, please discuss this with a member of the healthcare team.
Please contact the radiology nurses on the number provided prior to your procedure if:
- You are, or might be, pregnant
- You weigh more than 200kg or 31 stone
- You have an allergy to contrast (X-Ray dye)
Why do I need this procedure?
You have been referred by your Doctor for a water soluble enema examination, this is an x-ray examination used to visualise the large bowel using contrast (x-ray dye).
What is a Water Soluble Enema?
This is an x-ray examination used to visualise the large bowel. The Radiologist will place a small, soft, plastic tube into your bottom and pass though Contrast (x-ray dye). The contrast will let the doctor see the bowel on the x-rays and the x-rays taken are used to help diagnose various diseases or to check the bowel following surgery.
What are the benefits of the procedure?
This procedure is needed to diagnose a range of bowel problems quickly and accurately.
- To assess your bowel for diseases
- To assess your bowel for narrowing
- To check your bowel for leaks after surgery
How do I know if this is a suitable procedure for me?
Your doctor has suggested this as the most suitable test for you.
You will also be asked to give your consent for the procedure to go ahead following a detailed discussion with a radiologist (a doctor who specialises in reading x-rays and performing x-ray examinations). There will be plenty of time before the procedure to answer any questions you may have.
Can I take my usual medication?
Yes, you can normally take all your medication.
What happens during the procedure?
Before you arrive
The procedure is carried out as a day case, and you don’t need to be admitted to hospital for the procedure.
No bowel preparation is needed for this examination, and you can eat and drink normally beforehand. If you have a stoma (opening onto the surface of the abdomen) please bring a spare stoma bag with you just in case one is needed after the examination.
You should arrive at Radiology department about 10 minutes before the appointment time on your letter and book in at the Radiology Reception desk.
In the x-ray department
You will be shown into a private changing cubicle and asked to put a hospital gown on. You will be able to place your personal items in a basket that you will keep with you. If you want to bring your own dressing gown to wear over the top, that is fine.
During the procedure
On entering the x-ray room the Radiographer (person who takes the x-ray pictures) and Radiologist will greet you, they will then check your personal details and discuss the procedure with you. You will need to give your verbal consent before starting the examination.
You will be awake during the procedure and there will be a member of staff nearby at all times to support you.
You will be asked to lie on your side on the X-ray table, and then the radiologist will place a small, soft, plastic tube into your bottom. Contrast (x-ray dye) will be passed through the tube, and this will fill your bowel. You will be asked to move into various positions so the contrast can coat the inside of the bowel. Once there is enough contrast in your bowel we will start taking x-rays; this may involve you lying on your side or tummy to get the best image possible. During the procedure you need to do your best to keep as much contrast in your bowel as possible but don’t worry if some of the contrast leaks out; just tell us if it happens.
Every patient is different, but the procedure usually takes approximately half an hour.
At the end of the examination the contrast will be drained out of your bowel through the tube placed at the beginning of the procedure. Some of it will stay within your bowel, however once the examination is finished you will be shown to a private toilet outside the x-ray room. It is possible for the dye to leak out of the back passage and also to collect in the stoma bag if you have one, but you will be able to expel most of the remaining contrast before you leave the department.
At the end of the procedure
You will be shown back to a private changing cubicle so you can get changed back into your clothes, you will then be free to leave the department.
What happens after the procedure?
After the procedure you will be able to go home if you are an outpatient. Some of the contrast may continue to leak out following the examination. A pad will be provided for you to wear, or you may bring your own if you prefer. The contrast is clear, but you may find the liquid to be sticky, this is normal.
You will be able to continue to eat and drink as normal.
The results will be sent to the doctor who sent you for the test and they will arrange to give you the results.
How soon will I be back to normal?
You will be allowed to go home straight after the test and resume normal eating and drinking straight away.
You can drive on the same day as the procedure.
If you have any concerns do not hesitate to contact your GP or the radiology nurse on the number below.
What are the risks?
A water soluble enema is a safe examination; however as with any examination there are small risks, but these are extremely rare.
There is a very rare risk that a small tear could be made in the wall of the bowel. The radiologist will take great care to avoid this happening and the risks are very much outweighed by the benefit of the examination. If this did happen it would usually resolve itself, however if you required any immediate attention then this would be arranged. The doctor that referred you would then be informed and may want to follow up with you to make sure.
An allergic reaction to the contrast (x-ray dye) is extremely rare.
What should I do if I am or may be pregnant?
For all x-rays you should let the Radiographer know if you are pregnant or if there is a chance that you might be pregnant. X-rays aren’t usually recommended for pregnant women unless it is an emergency. You may be asked information regarding your menstrual cycle and be offered a pregnancy test if there is a possibility that you are pregnant.
What happens if I decide not to have the procedure?
You will be referred back to the doctor who referred you for the water soluble enema to discuss this further.
What if I have any special requirements?
If you have any special needs or requirements please contact the x-ray staff on the number below.
