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Comparison of oral lavage methods for preoperative colonic cleansing

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Diseases of the Colon & Rectum

Abstract

Polyethylene glycol electrolyte lavage solution was compared with a 10 percent mannitol solution for preoperative colonic cleansing. Eighty patients were prepared randomly with one of these solutions on the afternoon prior to surgery. Colonic cleansing was better with polyethylene glycol electrolyte lavage (90 percent optimal cleansingvs. 75 percent). Analysis of hematologic, biochemical, and weight changes before and after the bowel preparation, demonstrated a mild subclinical dehydration with the use of mannitol. Evaluation of patient tolerance demonstrated more nausea, cramps, and abdominal pain with mannitol. Other symptoms were similar with both preparations. Colonic hydrogen gas was sampled during surgery, and two patients in the mannitol group had combustible levels. This study confirms that both 10 percent mannitol and polyethylene glycol electrolyte lavage are safe, effective methods of preoperative bowel cleansing. Better cleansing, patient tolerance, and lower hydrogen gas level make polyethylene glycol electrolyte lavage the preferred method.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Colorectal Surgery, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, 44106, Cleveland, Ohio

    David E. Beck M.D.,  Victor W. Fazio M.B., B.S., F.A.C.S., F.R.A.C.S. & David G. Jagelman M.S. (Lon), F.R.C.S., (Eng)

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  1. David E. Beck M.D.
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  2. Victor W. Fazio M.B., B.S., F.A.C.S., F.R.A.C.S.
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  3. David G. Jagelman M.S. (Lon), F.R.C.S., (Eng)
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The opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not reflect the opinions of the United States Air Force, the Department of Defense or the Cleveland Clinic Foundation.

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Beck, D.E., Fazio, V.W. & Jagelman, D.G. Comparison of oral lavage methods for preoperative colonic cleansing. Dis Colon Rectum 29, 699–703 (1986). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02555311

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