Comparison of three bowel preparation for sigmoidoscopy

ABSTRACT

The efficacy of three lower bowel preparations in 96 patients undergoing rigid sigmiodoscopy was studied. The maximal length of insertion and clarity of view were assessed in each group and compared to patients without bowel preparation. Blood per rectum and diarrhoea were the main indications for sigmoidoscopy. The maximal insertion of the instrument was similar for all groups and the rectosigmoid junction was examined in the majority. The clarity of view was good in 71 percent of patients receiving Fleet enema, 68 percent of those receiving Dulcolax micro-enema, 36 percent in the Dulcolax suppository and 16 percent in the group without bowel preparation. There were no adverse effects or complications arising from bowel preparation or sigmoidoscopy. Bowel preparation significantly improves the number of satisfactory sigmoidoscopic examinations, and the use of simple disposable enemas is safe and effective. (AU)