Double-contrast barium enema

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| name = Double-contrast barium enema

| image = File:Human intestinal tract, as imaged via double-contrast barium enema.jpg|thumb|

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| caption = Human intestinal tract, as imaged via double-contrast barium enema

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| purpose = radiography which uses 2 forms of contrast for better image

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A double-contrast barium enema is a form of contrast radiography in which x-rays of the colon and rectum are taken using two forms of contrast to make the structures easier to see.{{cite book|last1=Cittadini|first1=Giorgio|title=Double contrast barium enema: The Genoa approach|date=2012|publisher=Springer Science & Business Media|isbn=9788847022171|page=5|language=en}} A liquid containing barium (that is, a radiocontrast agent) is put into the rectum. Barium (usually as a sulfate) outlines the colon and rectum on an x-ray and helps show abnormalities. Air is also put into the rectum and colon to further enhance the x-ray.

Double-contrast barium enemas are less invasive than a colonoscopy and have comparatively fewer issues in a viable large bowel.{{cite book|last1=Stringer|first1=David A.|last2=Babyn|first2=Paul S.|title=Pediatric Gastrointestinal Imaging and Intervention|date=2000|publisher=PMPH-USA|isbn=9781550090796|page=38|language=en}}