Small bowel x-ray series

A small intestinal transit or small bowel follow-through is an X-ray examination in which the entire route and functioning of the small intestine are examined after drinking a barium-containing contrast fluid to detect any abnormalities.

What about pregnancy?

X-rays can be harmful to the unborn child. If you are pregnant or could be, discuss with your doctor whether the examination can be postponed or should be replaced by another examination. Always report this to the medical imager before the examination.

Course

Before the examination

A small intestinal transit is only done by appointment and only on the basis of a medical prescription. Please note that the investigation may start later than planned due to unforeseen circumstances.

You must fast for at least four hours for this test. Please also do not smoke before the examination because this irritates the stomach and intestines.

During the examination

The duration of the study is patient-specific. The examination can take two to six hours, so make sure you allow the necessary time. Notify your employer in advance of your absence.

During the examination, you will drink approximately half a liter of contrast fluid (three to four cups). Pictures are taken at regular intervals until the small intestine is completely filled and merges into the large intestine. You may have to change your position while taking the photos. In the final phase of the examination, pressure may have to be applied to your abdomen using an attachment on the X-ray table.

You will be asked to remove all jewelry and put on an examination gown to protect your clothing (aprons are available).

After the examination

The barium-containing contrast product can cause limited constipation: drink sufficient water for the first three days after the examination. The stool may have a white color for several days.

Depending on which type of contrast fluid was used, you may experience some degree of diarrhea for a short period of time.

The radiologist makes a report of the examination. You will receive a code/link with which the images and the radiologic report can be viewed by yourself and the requesting doctor. The referring doctor will discuss these results with you.