The modern bowel preparation in colonoscopy

Gastroenterol Clin North Am. 2013 Sep;42(3):577-98. doi: 10.1016/j.gtc.2013.05.010.

Abstract

Adequate bowel preparation is essential for optimal colonoscopy. Suboptimal bowel preparation occurs in 25% to 40% of cases and is associated with canceled procedures, prolonged procedure time, incomplete examination, increased cost, and missed pathology. There are several effective formulations for colon cleansing with a good safety profile. Split dosing should be implemented whenever possible in an effort to enhance tolerance and adherence, and improve mucosal visibility and overall quality of the examination. In this review, modern bowel preparations are discussed including their mechanism of action, mode of use, safety, and how to optimize outcomes.

Keywords: Cleaning; Colonoscopy; Preparation; Quality.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cathartics / administration & dosage*
  • Colon
  • Colonoscopy / methods*
  • Humans

Substances

  • Cathartics