[Value of a new simple mechanical large intestine preparation in comparison with PEG lavage]

The subjective incommodation of the patient by the well established methods of colonic cleansing for operation or endoscopic examination gave a reason to evaluate the efficacy of a new mechanical method in a prospective randomized study. 60 patients were divided in two groups: Colonic preparation was performed by YAL-irrigation in group 1, by oral lavage with PEG (polyethylene glycol electrolyte) in group 2. We found no fecal residue in 29.6% of the YAL group compared to 22.2% in the PEG group, a small amount of liquid stool in 29.6% (YAL) compared to 48.1% (PEG), a large amount of liquid stool in 25.9% of both groups and a solid stool in 14.8% (YAL) compared to 3.7% (PEG). The examination of the mucosal surface was hindered by solid or large amounts of liquid stool in 14.8% of group 1 and in 11.1% in the PEG group, particularly localized in the right hemicolon. In group 1, a significantly better valuation in subjective patient tolerance was found: 18.9% (YAL) compared to 77.8% (PEG) (p less than 0,0001) showed symptoms of patient discomfort.

The simple mechanical preparation with YAL has been shown not to be as safe as with the PEG lavage. However, the YAL method seems to be a useful alternative in patients with suspected stenosis, tendency for vomiting as well as for examination or operation of the left hemicolon.