Comparative Study of Single- Versus Split-Dose Polyethylene Glycol Electrolyte Solution Before Undergoing Colonoscopy

Abstract

Objective: To compare the outcome of consumption of a single versus split-dose polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution in patients undergoing colonoscopy in the morning.

Methodology: A randomised controlled trial was conducted at the Department of Gastroenterology, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Lahore, from April to July 2021. A total of 274 patients undergoing colonoscopy, who fulfilled the selection criteria were included through a "non-probability, consecutive sampling technique". The patients were randomly divided into two groups. In group A, single dose of PEG was administered. Group B was administered a split dose of PEG which was to be consumed in two parts, 1st in evening before colonoscopy and the second in the morning. Efficacy was labelled if adequate cleaning of the intestines and a BBPS score of ≥6 were achieved during colonoscopy.

Results:  In the single dose group, the mean age of patients was 45.15 ± 13.37 years, 68 (49.6%) patients were male, 69 (50.4%) patients were female, efficacy of the procedure was achieved in 54 (39.4%) patients, and the mean BBPS score was 4.99 ± 0.90. In the split dose group, mean age of patients was 49.85 ± 11.38 years, 56 (40.9%) patients were male, 81 (59.1%) patients were female, efficacy of the procedure was achieved in 137 (100%) patients, and the mean BBPS score was 7.61 ± 0.49. The difference in both groups was highly significant (p-value < 0.0001).

Conclusion: A split dose is thus more efficacious and acceptable than a single dose of polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution given for bowel preparation.