A Small Bowel Follow-Through (SBF) is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses X-rays and a contrast material to visualize the small intestine. It helps identify and evaluate conditions like inflammation, blockages, or abnormal growths.
Understanding the Procedure Steps
The Small Bowel Follow-Through procedure begins with the patient ingesting a liquid contrast material, typically a barium solution. This substance coats the inside of the small intestine, making it visible on X-ray images. After drinking the initial amount, the patient lies on an X-ray table.
A radiologist then uses a real-time X-ray technique called fluoroscopy to observe the barium as it travels from the stomach into the small intestine. Intermittent X-ray images are taken over time to track the barium’s progression through the entire length of the small bowel. Patients may be asked to change positions or drink additional contrast to ensure thorough coating and visualization of the intestinal loops.
Pressure may be applied to the abdomen with a compression device to help separate bowel loops for clearer images. This process continues, with images taken at various intervals, until the contrast material reaches the large intestine, ensuring a complete examination.
Factors Influencing Procedure Duration
The duration of a Small Bowel Follow-Through varies significantly among individuals, depending on several physiological factors. One primary factor is the patient’s small bowel motility, which refers to the speed at which the digestive system moves contents along. Faster motility means the barium will transit through the small intestine more quickly.
Conditions affecting the bowel, such as partial obstructions or inflammatory diseases, can slow the passage of the contrast material, extending the procedure time. For instance, a narrowing in the intestine will impede the barium’s flow, requiring more time for it to reach the colon.
Typically, barium transit through the small bowel ranges from 30 to 120 minutes, or one to two hours. However, in some cases, it can take several hours, even up to four hours or more, for the barium to reach the end of the small intestine.
Preparing For and Concluding the Procedure
Preparation for a Small Bowel Follow-Through typically involves specific dietary restrictions to ensure clear imaging. Patients are usually instructed not to eat or drink anything for several hours before the examination, often from midnight the night before. This fasting helps ensure the small intestine is empty, allowing the contrast material to coat the lining effectively.
It is advisable to discuss any current medications with the doctor, as some adjustments might be necessary before the procedure. Patients are also encouraged to wear loose, comfortable clothing and remove any jewelry that could interfere with the X-ray images. Following the imaging, patients are advised to drink plenty of fluids to help flush the barium contrast material out of their system.
The barium, being chalky, can cause stools to appear lighter in color for a few days following the procedure. Some individuals might experience mild bloating or temporary constipation. Staying well-hydrated helps prevent these side effects and promotes the swift elimination of the contrast material from the body.