Intraluminal pressure measurements during barium enema: full column vs. air contrast

Intraluminal pressure measurements were made during enema examination of 10 patients undergoing full column studies and 10 patients receiving air-contrast studies. There was no significant difference between the pressure in the distal colon of the two groups. All pressures were less than those produced by Valsalva maneuver or straight leg raising, and were generally less than those previously found to be necessary to rupture the colon. The authors believe that the findings should dispel any fear that an air-contrast examination is more hazardous than a full column study. Perforations occurring during these procedures are more likely related to disease of the colon wall or local trauma.