A barium enema is a procedure that uses an X-ray to examine the lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It can help identify colorectal cancers and other conditions. Experts may also call barium enemas ...

A barium swallow is a type of test used to look inside the esophagus, or food pipe. A doctor might recommend this test if they need to look at the outline of any part of a person’s digestive system.