lower gastrointestinal (GI) series

A procedure that uses x-rays to produce a series of images of the lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract, including the colon and rectum. A barium enema is used to inject a contrast medium into the colon and rectum through the anus. The contrast medium (barium sulphate) makes organs and structures show up clearly on the x-ray image.

Doctors use a lower GI series to look for tumours, polyps, blockages or other signs of disease.