Figure 5.

Increased contrast concentration and visibility after successful transit into colon. (a) Contrast is initially difficult to see on 8-h AXR for an obese patient, although there is suggestion of diluted contrast in dilated small bowel loops (arrow) and no colonic contrast. (b) On subsequent 24-h AXR, colonic contrast is present, which is easier to see due to its more condensed nature. The patient was managed non-operatively and discharged 2 days later. This case highlights that even if small bowel contrast is initially difficult to see, with successful transit, there often will be clear evidence of a passed trial given concentration of contrast in the colon. Conversely, if only diluted small bowel contrast is seen, then this would suggest a failed trial and inadequate contrast passage. AXR, abdominal radiographs.