What is a water soluble enema?
It is an x-ray investigation to look at your large bowel.
Who performs your investigation?
A radiologist will carry out your investigation. Radiologists are specially trained doctors to carry out complex examinations and interpet and report the images. They are supported by radiographers who are highly trained to carry out x-rays and other imaging procedures.
Are there special preparations required for this investigation?
There is no specific preparation for this investigation.
What does the investigation involve?
Once you have arrived in the x-ray department you will be asked to change into a hospital gown. You will then be taken into the x-ray room and asked to lie on the x-ray bed. The radiologist will insert a small, soft plastic tube into your back passage and x-ray dye will pass through the tube so that we can see your bowel on the x-ray pictures. You may also be asked to lie in different positions whilst the x-rays are being taken.
Once the x-ray pictures have been collected the tube will be removed and you will be directed to the bathroom which is near to the x-ray room. When you have finished in the bathroom you may get dressed and go home.
How long does the investigation take and is it a painful?
The investigation takes about 20 minutes. It is not a painful procedure but you may experience some slight discomfort when placing the plastic tube in your back passage.
Are there any side/after effects of the investigation?
There are no side effects or after effects with this examination.
How do you get the results of your investigation?
The results will be sent to the consultant who referred you for the investigation.
Important - could you be pregnant?
This examination does involve using a small amount of radiation. This dose is kept to a minimum to reduce the risks to yourself.
This appointment for x-ray must fall within the first 28 days of your menstrual cycle, counting the day you start your period as day 1. If this appointment does not fall within these 28 days, or if you are at all uncertain, please contact radiology appointments on 0161 778 2233. It is important that this rule is adhered to.
If you have any questions or concerns prior to the investigation you may contact the radiology booking team on 0161 778 2233.
Date of Review: September 2024
Date of Next Review: September 2026
Ref No: PI_DS_573 (BRO)