Hi,
The length of the colon depends from person to person. The normal colon is about 5-6 feet long.
Barium enema is an uncomfortable procedure and there is a chance that it might miss the colon polyps also it does not allow the doctor to take a biopsy if polyps are present.
A double contrast barium enema can visualize polyps better.
I had a colonoscopy (my second) two dys ago and neither was able to be completed because of a tortuous colon. My Dr. now suggests a barium enema. Can they see poylps in the colon using the barium? It was very painful even with sedation and I doubt I'll have another one.