Bag (Colostomy)
A waterproof bag which is worn over the stoma. The bag is made of a special waterproof material, known as hydrocolloid, which is adhesive and sticks to the area without the need for adhesive tape.

Barium Enema
A barium enema is a procedure that is carried out using a special type of X-ray to examine the large bowel for problems, such as growths (polyps), inflammation (colitis), and tumours. The large bowel is made up of the colon and rectum.

Normal X-rays do not provide very good pictures of the bowel, so a substance called barium sulphate is used to produce a clearer picture. Barium sulphate is a fine, white, odourless powder that is insoluble and non-poisonous. It coats the inside of the bowel, making it easier to see on the X-rays.

If examination of the large intestine (bowel) is necessary, the barium sulphate is put directly into the rectum via the back-passage (anus). This is called a barium enema. If, however, the upper gastrointestinal tract (oesophagus, stomach and small intestine) is to be investigated, the barium sulphate can be taken by mouth in a procedure known as a barium meal or barium swallow.

A barium enema is commonly used to detect colon cancer, and abnormalities of the large intestine. For example, cancerous or non-cancerous growths (polyps), ulcers, and small pouches that form on the colon wall that become inflamed (diverticulitis). A barium enema is also often used to diagnose inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

British Medical Association (BMA)
The British Medical Association is the doctors’ professional organisation established to look after the professional and personal needs of our members. The BMA represents doctors in all branches of medicine all over the UK.