Barium impaction as a complication of gastrointestinal scleroderma
M. A. Thompson and R. Summers
Two patients with scleroderma of the bowel experienced life-threatening
barium impaction after upper intestinal x-ray studies. Although the
frequency of this complication is unknown, the difficulty of managing it
when it occurs makes prevention imperative. X-ray studies should be
performed only after careful consideration of the risks and benefits. When
x-ray studies are performed, the patient should be vigorously purged soon
thereafter, and a follow-up roentgenogram should be obtained to confirm
adequate removal of barium.
