Preoperative bowel preparation in children: polyethylene glycol versus normal saline

Abstract

Background: Colorectal surgeries frequently require bowel preparation. In children, (is this standard of care?: this method is mostly followed) this is usually performed using normal saline, which is very cumbersome and causes unnecessary discomfort. This study compared polyethylene glycol (PEG) with normal saline for preoperative bowel preparation in children.

Patients and methods: Thirty patients, admitted in the Department of Paediatric Surgery, Rajindra Hospital, Patiala, for colonic and colorectal surgical procedures, were divided into two groups, I (PEG) and II (NS), randomly for bowel preparation with PEG and normal saline, respectively.

Results: It was found that there was no significant difference in the quality of preparation (P > 0.05), but PEG use was found to be easier, more comfortable and acceptable for the patients, their relatives and the hospital staff. Overall, complications are significantly lesser for PEG preparation (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the overall cost.

Conclusion: Thus, it can be inferred that PEG may be a safe, cost-effective and acceptable option for large bowel preparation.