[The use of 10-percent mannitol solution in colonic surgery]

Based on the experience acquired in 20 cases the authors discuss the use of the mannitol solution in the surgery of the colon. The colic voiding was evaluated in 19 cases as very good, a fact that stresses the efficiency of this method of mechanical preparation of the colon. The method is very well tolerated by the patients, and the secondary biological modifications are not significant. Contraindications are limited to the very aged (above 75 years), in patients with cardiac disease, or in those with hepatic and renal diseases, as well as in those with occluding forms of neoplasies.