Would you like to see my colon?

Not my real one of course, but my low-budget study tool you can use to visualize the large intestine when studying positioning for Barium Enema! You can make your own with a large paperclip or pipe cleaner... here's how:

Step 1: Hold paperclip crosswise with open end on the bottom.



Step 2: Unbend the bottom portion about 90 degrees so that it is vertical.



Step 3: Unbend the other portion so that it is parallel to the prior side.



Step 4: Unbend the final portion so that it is parallel with the longest side. It should look like an incomplete square now.



Step 5: Curve the top/longest side toward you in a "C" shape. The bottom should be pointed at you now.



Step 6: Bend the now curved to portion down.



Step 7: Place your finger half-way between the bends on the right side and make a new bend, turning toward the left.



Step 8: Bend the shortest portion into a "C" shape so that the end of the paperclip is facing you.



You now have a colon for everyone to see... show your parents, your friends, your classmates, and even your instructor! Show everyone!



Twist and turn to see how gravity would shift contrast and air! Use a flashlight to examine your colon!

*Supine AP





*Lateral Rectum



*Decubitus images demonstrate barium side down, air side up.





*Cephalic angele - demonstrates sigmoid colon in profile



*RPO - demonstrates the splenic flexure open





*LPO - demonstrates the hepatic flexure (not so well in the radiograph, but better in the second image)





Study your colon regularly to master positioning skills for BE!