An Israeli national survey on ischemic colitis induced by pre-colonoscopy bowel preparation (R1)

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Colorectal Surgery
• Medical Complications

Background:

• Ischemic colitis (IC) can be a complication following colonoscopy procedures.
• The study focuses on IC cases linked to bowel preparation laxatives used before elective colonoscopies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize patients who developed IC after using bowel preparation laxatives.
• To investigate the association between bisacodyl and IC in the context of colonoscopy.

Main Methods:

• A survey was conducted among Israeli gastroenterologists to gather data on individual IC cases.
• Information was collected on patients experiencing IC after bisacodyl ingestion for colonoscopy preparation.

Main Results:

• Eight patients developed IC after ingesting bisacodyl as part of their pre-colonoscopy bowel preparation.
• Symptoms of severe abdominal pain and/or hematochezia began shortly after bisacodyl intake.
• IC was diagnosed during colonoscopy in 7 patients and via CT scan in one; all recovered with supportive care.

Conclusions:

• Bisacodyl-induced IC is a rare but recognized complication.
• It is advisable to consider withholding bisacodyl bowel preparation in elderly patients with IC risk factors scheduled for colonoscopy.