Comparison of three bowel preparations for sigmoidoscopy.

The efficacy of three lower bowel preparations in 96 patients undergoing rigid sigmoidoscopy 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% of patients receiving Fleet enema, 68% of those receiving Dulcolax micro-enema, 36% in the Dulcolax suppository group and 16% 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.