A Prospective Comparison of Sulfate Free Polyethylene Glycol versus Sodium Phosphate Solution for Precolonoscopic Bowel Preparation

Background/Aims: Polyethylene glycol (PEG) solution is commonly used for precolonoscopic preparation because of its safety and effectiveness. Sulfate free PEG (SF-PEG) solution was developed to reduce the salty taste by removing the sodium sulfate. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and patient compliance of SF-PEG and sodium phosphate (NaP) solutions for preparing the bowel before colonoscopy. Methods: From February through April in 2007, 534 patients who underwent colonoscopy were prospectively enrolled. The efficacy of bowel cleansing was assessed by a doctor's questionnaire and the patient's compliance was assessed by a patient's questionnaire. Results: There was no significant difference between the groups for the stools and fluids assessment of bowel cleansing (2.07 vs. 2.14, respectively, p=0.149). However, SF-PEG was more effective on the air bubbles assessment (1.34 vs. 1.71, respectively, p＜0.001) and the overall assessment (0.72 vs. 0.91, respectively, p=0.010) than NaP. The patients preferred SF-PEG rather than NaP for Taste (1.34 vs. 2.25, respectively, p=0.148). However, the patients significantly preferred NaP rather than SF-PEG for Quantity (2.46 vs. 1.18, respectively, p＜0.001). Conclusions: The SF-PEG solution showed more effectiveness for bowel cleansing as compared to the NaP solution. SF-PEG tastes better than NaP, but patients are still required to consume 4 liters for the standard preparing regimen.