title: Intravasation of barium sulphate at barium enema examination.
abstract: 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.
authors.affiliation: Royal Alexandra Hospital, 10240 Kingsway, Edmontion, AB, T5H 3V, Canada.
authors.forename: J S
authors.initials: JS
authors.lastname: White
authors.forename: R T
authors.initials: RT
authors.lastname: Skelly
authors.forename: K R
authors.initials: KR
authors.lastname: Gardiner
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Laird
authors.forename: M C
authors.initials: MC
authors.lastname: Regan
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D001466:Barium Sulfate; D003287:Contrast Media; D004733:Enema / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005119:Extravasation of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Materials / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006471:Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D006323:Heart Arrest / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D011859:Radiography; D012002:Rectal Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging
chemical_list: D003287:Contrast Media; D001466:Barium Sulfate