An enema consists of injecting a liquid into the rectum (termination of the intestine) using a cannula.
It can be a therapeutic act, but the enema can also be part of an examination, the barium enema.
Enema Definition by Merriam Webster:
Definition 1: The injection of liquid into the rectum and colon by way of the anus
Definition 2: Material for injection as an enema
Enema Definition by Dictionary.com
Enema Definition 1: The injection of a fluid into the rectum to cause a bowel movement.
Definition 2: The fluid injected.
Definition 3: Also called enema bags. A rubber bag or other device for administering an enema.
Enema Indications
Stubborn constipation: A small enema is performed to trigger the stool evacuation reflex. Another possibility in case of failure, the enema is more voluminous, (a few hundred milliliters), with salt water for example. It is used to rehydrate the materials located high enough in the colon and to make the stool evacuation reflex effective.
Therapeutic enemas: They are used in the lower locations of ulcerative colitis, and contain a corticosteroid.
Exploration of the large intestine: the simple barium enema or barium enema with double contrast are two x-rays which make it possible to precisely show the interior contour of the intestines.
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How does enema happen?
The small enemas contained in a squeeze bottle are injected directly into the rectum.
Larger enemas use gravity: the bottle is connected to a flexible tube, placed above you, the height determining the force of penetration of the liquid.
Enema Complications
Executed normally, there is none.
Too high enemas carried on a stubborn constipation, can favor a perforation of the wall of the colon. This is the risk in the event of an obstacle on the colon or in the event of diverticulosis . This kind of enema should never be practiced in self-medication, it is a doctor who must prescribe it.
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