[Double contrast barium enema-colonoscopy. Comparative diagnostic value in 73 patients (author's transl)]

Double contrast barium enema and colonoscopy are great value in the diagnosis of lesions of the colon, especially polyps. This study involved 73 patients. The results were in agreement in 71,2% of cases and disagreed in 23,3%. In 5,5%, colonoscopy was technically inadequate. Classical barium enema remains indicated for the detection of carcinoma or in elderly or bedridden individuals. By contrast, barium enema should be replaced by double contrast study in the aetiological evaluation of rectal bleeding. In our own series, the diagnosis was positive in 92% of cases as long as both the radiological and endoscopic techniques were used.