Background:

Multiple intestinal preparations have been used in children undergoing colonoscopy, with variable limitation due to acceptance, tolerance, and proper cleaning. The objective of this study was to compare the tolerability, safety and efficacy of the colonoscopy preparation with 1 day with PEG 3350 (poliethylenglycol) (4 g/kg/day) + bisacodyl compared to 2 days of preparation with PEG 3350 (2 g/kg/day) + bisacodyl in pediatric patients.

Methods:

A clinical, randomized, and blind trial was performed. Patients aged 2 to 18 years scheduled for colonoscopy were included. Patients were randomized into two groups: 1 day of preparation with PEG 3350 4 g/kg/day + bisacodyl and 2 days of preparation with PEG 3350 2 g/kg/day + bisacodyl. Through a questionnaire, physical examination and endoscopic evaluation (Boston scale), the tolerance, safety and efficacy of the 2 preparations to be evaluated were determined. Student’s t test was performed for quantitative variables and χ2 for qualitative variables.

Results:

There were no significant differences in compliance rates, adverse effects, and extent of colonoscopic evaluation.

Conclusions:

Tolerance and safety between the intestinal preparation for 1-day colonoscopy with PEG 3350 (4 g/kg/day) + bisacodyl and the 2-day preparation with PEG 3350 (2 g/kg/day) + bisacodyl were similar. The quality of cleanliness was good in both groups, being partially more effective in the 1-day group with PEG 3350 (4 g/kg/day).