Air-Contrast Barium Enema

Diverticulosis

Courtesy of Intermountain Medical Imaging, Boise, Idaho. All rights reserved.

In an air-contrast study, the colon is first filled with barium and then the barium is drained, leaving only a thin layer of barium on the wall of the colon. The colon is then filled with air. This barium enema image shows pouches (called diverticula) in the wall of the colon.

Current as of: May 1, 2026

Author: WebMD Ignite Staff
Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: May 1, 2026

Author: WebMD Ignite Staff

Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.