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Defecography in healthy subjects: comparison of three contrast media
S Ikenberry1, J C Lappas, M P Hana
1Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, USA.
Purpose:
To determine if differences in the viscosity of defecographic contrast media influence radiographic findings.
Materials And Methods:
Twenty asymptomatic volunteers underwent defecography three times with a different contrast medium used for each examination. The contrast media varied in viscosity from a thin barium liquid to a commercial barium paste formulated for defecography and to an extremely thick, specially prepared barium contrast paste.
Results:
Significant differences (P < .05) between media were demonstrated for measurements of the anorectal angle and anorectal junction during liquid medium voiding. Differences in pelvic floor descent and evacuation time were not significant (P > .05). Rectoceles occurred in 14 subjects and were demonstrated with all media. Low-grade intussusceptions were more prevalent with the liquid medium, but their occurrence was not statistically significantly more frequent (P > .05).
Conclusion:
Altering the viscosity of the barium contrast medium used for defecography does not substantially affect the subsequent radiographic findings.