BARIUM ENEMA AIR CONT

Hello,

Recently I had the barium enema air contrast done, with the following results:

Examination: AIR CONTRAST BARIUM ENEMA
Indication: Abdominal discomfort.  Change in bowel
habits.
Comparison: None.
Report: Standard air contrast barium enema was
performed.  The colon is normal in course and caliber, showing
no
areas of fixed focal narrowing or dilatation.  No mucosal fold
thickening or ulceration is evident.  A few small round filling
defects are identified in the transverse and descending colon;
however, these do not persist on all images and are favored to
reflect air bubbles or retained fecal material.  No definite
mass
is apparent.  The vermiform appendix is partially opacified and
appears normal.  There is a small amount of reflux into the
distal ileum.

IMPRESSION: Barium enema essentially within normal limits.

In spite of the impression *essenrially within normal limits*, I got a bit worried with these filling defects that don't persist. What does it mean when they don't persist?
My doctor thinks the result is 100% normal and thinks a colonoscopy is not needed.
I would appreciate any inputs.

Thank you very much.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

I do not interpret specific disease from the X-ray reports.  Regarding the filling defects, the radiologist gave possible explanations - including air bubbles or retained fecal material.  

I agree that the findings are normal.  However, if the symptoms continue you can consider a colonoscopy - however the yield of additional findings may be low.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patients education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com