Feasibility and safety of bowel cleansing using low-volume polyethylene glycol with ascorbic acid before pediatric...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Endoscopy Procedures
• Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders

Background:

• Effective bowel cleansing is crucial for successful pediatric colonoscopy.
• Traditional bowel preparation regimens can be challenging for children to adhere to.
• Evaluating novel, child-friendly bowel preparation methods is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the feasibility and safety of a same-day, low-volume polyethylene glycol (PEG) solution with ascorbic acid regimen for bowel cleansing in children undergoing colonoscopy.
• To assess the efficacy of this bowel preparation method in achieving adequate visualization for colonoscopy.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of data from children who received PEG solution with ascorbic acid for bowel cleansing.
• A same-day regimen involving a low-residue diet, sodium picosulfate the evening before, and PEG solution with ascorbic acid the morning of the procedure.
• Dosages were adjusted by body weight, and cleansing efficacy was graded by the colonoscopist.

Main Results:

• The study included 96 pediatric patients (112 procedures), with 81% tolerating the oral intake of the preparation.
• Satisfactory bowel cleansing (grade ≥3) was achieved in 87% of cases (intention-to-treat analysis).
• No serious adverse events were reported, and faster ingestion correlated with better cleansing outcomes.

Conclusions:

• The same-day regimen of polyethylene glycol solution with ascorbic acid is an effective and safe option for pediatric bowel preparation before colonoscopy.
• This approach offers a potentially more tolerable and convenient alternative for children.
• Further research may explore optimizing the timing and administration for even better results.