Bowel preparation is designed to clean the bowel of its contents so that the bowel lining is visible to inspect. It is usually described as the worst part of colonoscopy, but there have been developments that improve the tolerability.
“White diet” or no fibre diet is consumed the whole day before the colonoscopy. Previously “clear fluids” had to be taken for the whole day before the colonoscopy.
After the first dose of preparation, “clear fluids” are consumed until 2hours before the arrival time at the day surgery facility. This helps to minimise the effects of dehydration due to prolonged fasting.
“Split dosing” improves bowel cleaning. Usually dose 1 is taken at 6pm the evening before the colonoscopy. Dose 2 is taken about 4-5hours prior to the arrival time at the day surgery facility.
Low volume preparations such as Plenvu or Picoprep Orange are usually recommended. The longer term, large volume standard of Glycoprep is still used for some patients.
The choice of preparation and detailed instructions are discussed at your office consultation.
