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Bowel preparation for colonoscopy: enema versus sodium phosphate
O I Alatise1, A O Arigbabu, O O Lawal
1Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology/ Department of Surgery, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex, Ile-Ife, Osun state, Nigeria. segunalatishe@yahoo.co.uk
The Nigerian Postgraduate Medical Journal
|June 15, 2011
Summary
Sodium phosphate (NaP) bowel preparation is more tolerable and effective for colonoscopy than water enema. NaP results in better colon cleansing and a shorter procedure duration, improving patient experience.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Endoscopic procedures
- Medical device and drug evaluation
Background:
- Colonoscopy is the gold standard for colonic mucosa assessment.
- Optimal visualization requires effective bowel preparation.
- Water enema is a traditional method used in many Nigerian centers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare patient tolerability, adverse effects, efficacy, and duration of colonoscopy.
- Evaluate water enema versus sodium phosphate (NaP) for bowel preparation.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study at a Nigerian teaching hospital.
- 64 patients (in- and out-patients) participated.
- Standardized questionnaires assessed tolerability, adverse effects, efficacy, and procedure duration.
Main Results:
- NaP group reported better tolerability and easier dietary restrictions (p < 0.0001).
- NaP achieved superior colon cleansing scores across all colonic regions.
- Colonoscopy duration was significantly shorter with NaP compared to water enema (p < 0.0001).
Conclusions:
- Sodium phosphate (NaP) demonstrates superior bowel cleansing for colonoscopy compared to water enema.
- NaP offers better tolerability, a more favorable side effect profile, and improved efficacy.
- The NaP group experienced a shorter mean procedure duration, enhancing efficiency.
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