American Journal of Roentgenology, Vol 162, 1323-1325, Copyright © 1994 by American Roentgen Ray Society

ARTICLES

The use of antispasmodic drugs during barium enemas

J Skucas
Department of Radiology, University of Rochester Medical Center, NY 14642.

In 1958, Welin recommended the routine use of atropine before a barium enema to reduce mucus secretion and make the examination more comfortable. Currently, many radiologists believe that smooth-muscle spasmolysis is a useful adjunct during a barium enema and use such a spasmolytic agent. One survey found that spasmolytic agents were administered more frequently in 1987 than in 1976. The use of glucagon had increased 20% between 1976 and 1987. Among 34 foreign institutions responding to the survey, 37% used glucagon and 45% used scopolamine butylbromide (Buscopan). Nevertheless, it is still controversial whether spasmolytic agents play a significant role in the performance and interpretation of a barium enema. Some radiologists routinely use a spasmolytic agent; others do so only selectively.
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