Bowel preparation prior to colonoscopy using a limited intake of electrolyte solution for cleansing. A comparison between peroral and rectal intestinal lavage evaluated through degree of cleansing, acceptability by the patient and nursing time involved.

In a randomised single-blind study, peroral intestinal cleansing was compared with rectal lavaging in 55 completed colonscopies. After rapid oral intake of 1.5 l cold (5-7 degrees C) electrolyte solution, a better cleansing of colon was observed than after rectal lavage. A majority of patients preferred this method. More than one hour per patient of the nurses' time was saved in the electrolyte solution group. The amount of electrolyte solution used was less than in previous studies. It did not result in undesirable fluid retention in the colon. No serious side effects were observed, and only minor changes in the patients' weight and plasma osmolality occurred in the electrolyte solution group.