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Intravasation of barium sulphate at barium enema examination.

White JS, Skelly RT, Gardiner KR, Laird J, Regan MC

Royal Alexandra Hospital, 10240 Kingsway, Edmontion, AB, T5H 3V, Canada.

We report a case of venous intravasation of barium sulphate occurring during a routine barium enema examination for investigation of rectal bleeding. The patient suffered a cardiopulmonary arrest, but made a full recovery after organ support in intensive care. Review of radiographs from the examination showed intravasated barium in pelvic vessels. We review the literature on this rare, but serious, complication of barium enema examination and suggest measures by which intravasation can be prevented.

Published 6 July 2006 in Br J Radiol, 79(943): e32-5.
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