Individualized small bowel preparation for computed tomography enterography: A prospective randomized controlled...

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Gastroenterology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Standardized bowel preparation for computed tomography enterography (CTE) may not be optimal for all patients.
• Body Mass Index (BMI) varies significantly among individuals, potentially impacting bowel preparation efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility of individualized small bowel preparation for CTE based on BMI.
• To compare the efficacy and patient acceptance of BMI-adjusted mannitol volumes versus a standardized volume.

Main Methods:

• A prospective randomized controlled study involving 203 patients undergoing CTE.
• Patients were assigned to an individualized group (mannitol volume based on BMI) or a standardized group (1500 mL).
• Image quality, disease detection, adverse events, and patient acceptance were assessed.

Main Results:

• For patients with BMI < 18.5 kg/m², 1000 mL mannitol reduced flatulence and defecation frequency with higher acceptance, without compromising image quality or disease detection.
• For patients with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m², 2000 mL mannitol improved image quality but showed comparable adverse events and acceptance to the standard dose.
• Individualized preparation demonstrated potential benefits for specific BMI ranges.

Conclusions:

• Individualized, BMI-based small bowel preparation is a feasible and acceptable alternative for CTE.
• This approach can optimize patient experience and image quality in CTE procedures.