Clearer Roentgenographic Visualization of the Colon: A study of a conveniently packaged kit for preparing the colon, and its effect on electrolyte balance

Abstract

The standard preparation for barium enemas with castor oil and cleansing enemas often results in unsatisfactory roentgen studies, particularly in institutions where large numbers of elderly or debilitated patients are cared for. The evaluation of a newly available commercial “kit” for preparation of patients was conducted using an investigator blind control situation, and the results were compared with the usual and standard preparation. In addition, possible electrolyte disturbances with the use of this kit was also studied. A review of the results and their evaluation leads us to the opinion that the kit type of preparation utilizing large quantities of fluids and a bowel evacuant of magnesium citrates, citric acid, and sodium citrate, followed by phenolphthalein tablets, and potassium bitartrate and sodium bicarbonate suppositories, resulted in considerably improved barium enema studies, was more readily accepted by patient and nursing staff than the standard preparation, resulted in a smaller percentage of repeat examinations, and had no adverse effect on the alteration of serum electrolytes.