Sudden hypotensive syncope and significant iatrogenic maxillofacial trauma following administration of oral sodium phosphate purgative solution.

Oral sodium phosphate (NaP) solution is used globally as a bowel preparation for colonoscopy, surgery and medical-imaging (Balaban 2008). We present a case of a patient who suffered sudden hypotensive syncope and iatrogenic mandibular fractures within an hour of ingesting a NaP solution. We discuss the uses of these medicines and highlight the need to warn patients of possible adverse side effects to avoid patient harm and subsequent litigation.