Nonfatal barium intravasation into the portal venous system during barium enema examination

Abstract

We report a case of barium intravasation in a 66-year-old patient. Unenhanced computed tomography (CT) scan revealed barium and air emboli in portal veins and liver. We believe he survived because his liver prevented inflow of barium into the systemic circulation. To the best of our knowledge, this is the 23rd reported case of venous barium intravasation in the last 50 years. Because all 23 patients had bowel disease or diverticulitis, we conclude barium enema should be used cautiously in such patients.