Description

What Is Barium Sulfate Suspension?
It is the name given to the suspension of Barium Sulfate. A radiologist often transforms the powdered form of this compound into a liquid by suspending it in a quick-flowing drink. This is done before carrying out a CT scan to make a better CT scan of the gastrointestinal area. The patient has to intake it orally, refraining from other foods and drinks for some. The suspension is generally consumed anywhere from 90 min 2 hours before the CT scan is performed. A small amount of the suspension is kept aside for the minutes immediately prior to the test, to make sure that the maximum area of the gastrointestinal tract is coated.

Patients are encouraged to resume normal intake of foods and drinks once the scan is completed. The Barium Sulfate leaves the physical system through defecation. A probable side effect of this process is constipation.