Lower gastrointestinal series a familial history of polyps or colon cancer, although it is not uncommon for a barium enema to be done after a colonoscopy for further evaluation. Lower gastrointestinal series A lower gastrointestinal series is a medical procedure used to examine and diagnose problems with the human colon (large intestine). Radiographs (X-ray pictures) are taken while barium sulfate, a radiocontrast agent, fills the colon via an enema through the rectum. The term barium enema usually refers to a lower gastrointestinal series, although enteroclysis (an upper gastrointestinal series) is often called a small bowel barium enema. This test may be done in
Rectum is a cavity, or the dilated end of a duct, shaped like a Roman ampulla. Unlike other portions of the colon, the rectum does not have distinct taeniae coli. The taeniae blend with one another in the sigmoid colon five centimeters above the rectum, giving rise to a layer of longitudinal muscle that surrounds the rectum on all sides for its entire length. The rectum connects with the sigmoid colon at the level of S3, and connects with the anal canal as it passes through the pelvic floor muscles. Supports of the rectum include: The rectum acts as a temporary