Instructions and Information for Procedures / Tests  

Procedure Name: Defagram

Department Responsible for performing Procedure:
X-Ray

Department Contact Information:
(770) 991-8213

Where to Report:
Please enter at the Outpatient Entrance and go to Outpatient Registration 45 minutes prior to your scheduled procedure. You will be directed to the Radiology Department.

What to Bring:
- Physician Order
- Any forms from your physician relating to this visit
- Your insurance / Medicaid / Medicare card
- Driver's License / Photo Identification
- List of current medications along with the dosages and times taken, including over-the-counter drugs and herbals
- A list of all of your allergies
- Please check with your insurance carrier for any authorization requirements.
- Any films or reports from relevant studies not performed at Southern Regional.

Patient Instructions:
- Nothing to eat or drink 10 hours prior to the exam.
- Take 4 ounces Magnesium Citrate at 5 p.m. the day before the exam.  This can be purchased at most pharmacies.  
- Please follow any other specific instructions given to you by your doctor.
- Post Procedure: Drink plenty of fluids for 24 hours following this exam.

Procedure Information:
Defecography is an examination that shows the rectum and anal canal as they change during defecation (having a bowel movement).  This exam is used to evaluate for disorders of the lower bowel that are not evident by other tests such as colonoscopies or sigmoidoscopies. This exam will begin by you drinking a thick liquid called Barium when you arrive in the Radiology Department and takes an average of 2 hours to complete. For more specific information on this exam, please visit http://www.motilitysociety.org/patient/pdf/Defecography%20Patient%20Information%208%2015%202005.pdf

Additional Information:
None Currently Available