[Preparation for radiographic examination of the colon. An alternative cleansing method]

Two regimens for emptying of the bowel prior to radiographic examination of the colon were compared in a controlled, blinded investigation. Both of the regimens included directions about laxatives and diet for 24 hours. In the standard regimen, this was supplemented by an enema while, in the cololax regimen, this was supplemented by oral ingestion of an electrolyte polyethylene glycol solution. The two regimens were found to be equally effective as regards the effect on bowel emptying. The Cololax regimen was associated with the greatest number of side effects and 40% found the taste of Cololax disagreeable. The ages of the patients were of no significance. The Cololax regimen has the advantages that it may be carried out by the patient himself in his own home and that it saves staff resources for the enema. Further analysis of the results suggests that Cololax regimen with improvement in the taste may be the most effective method and the method preferred by the patients.