Comparative analysis of different doses of polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution for colonoscopy preparation

Objective To compare the efficacy of bowel-cleansing, patients′ compliance, tolerability and side effects of different doses of polyethylene glycol(PEG) electrolyte solution for colonoscopy preparation. Methods Single-blind prospective randomized trial was performed. A total of 100 inpatients undergoing elective colonoscopy were randomized into three groups to receive 4 L PEG(n=35), 2 L PEG(n=31) or 2+ 1 L PEG(n=34), respectively, on the day of colonoscopy from May to July 2014. Bowel-cleansing efficacy was separately assessed with the Ottawa Scale for the right, middle, and left colon. Total score was obtained by adding the scores for individual evaluation of the three colon segments with the score of overall fluid in the entire colon. All patients filled in a questionnaire and were interviewed about their compliance to the assigned bowel preparation, tolerability, and side effects. Results Patients who did not complete the colonoscopy were excluded. A total of 91 patients were included in the last analysis: 31 cases of 4 L group, 30 cases of 2 L group and 30 cases of 2+ 1 L group. The efficacy of bowel-cleansing of the three groups of patients according to the Ottawa Scale were similar(P>0.05), but the excellent and good rate of cleansing quality of the right colon was higher in 4 L group than in 2 L group(P<0.05). Compared with 4 L group and 2+ 1 L group, patients in the 2 L group had higher compliance and tolerability, as well as lower rate of side effects(P<0.05). Conclusion The efficacy and safety of taking 2 L polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution in bowel-cleansing on the day of colonoscopy is good and suitable for use. Taking 4 L polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution for bowel preparation on the day of colonoscopy is more suitable for patients who are suspected highly with lesions of the right colon. Key words: Polyethylene glycols; Electrolytes; Colonoscopy; Bowel preparation