Dimethylpolysiloxane as an adjuvant in double-contrast barium enema.

The value of Dimethylpolysiloxane (Simethicone) in the reduction of gas bubbles and foam formation, and in the prevention of flocculation of contrast medium during the double-contrast barium enema examination is presented. Altogether 600 unselected patients were studied, 300 with barium suspension diluted with 10 vol % of distilled water only, and 300 with the same suspension into which dimethylpolysiloxane was added. Simethicone significantly reduced gas bubbles and foam formation. It also prevented flocculation and cracking of mucosal coating, while it had no effect on the density of mucosal coating.