Colonic preparation before colonoscopy in constipated and non-constipated patients: a randomized study.

Aim: To compare the efficacy of different doses of sodium phosphate (NaP) and polyethylenglicol (PEG) alone or with bisacodyl for colonic cleansing in constipated and non-constipated patients.

Methods: Three hundred and forty-nine patients, older than 18 years old, with low risk for renal damage and who were scheduled for outpatient colonoscopy were randomized to receive one of the following preparations (prep): 90 mL of NaP (prep 1); 45 mL of NaP + 20 mg of bisacodyl (prep 2); 4 L of PEG (prep 3) or 2 L of PEG + 20 mg of bisacodyl (prep 4). Randomization was stratified by constipation.

[Surveillance colonoscopy before scheduled: is it worthwhile?].

Objective: To determine de incidence of colonic polyps in colonoscopies performed before scheduled and to identifY the clinical and endoscopic features that predicted this finding.

Methods: All patients who underwent at least two complete colonoscopies less than three years apart were retrospectively identified in our computerized database. We excluded patients with high risk of colonic neoplasm requiring a new colonoscopy in less than three years.

Laparoscopic colectomy: medial versus lateral approach.

Background: Laparoscopic colectomy can be performed using 2 approaches: lateral or medial. However, it is unknown if one of these techniques provides better results. Thus, the object of the present study is to assess whether one of the approaches has any potential benefits over the other.

Long-term assessment of fecal incontinence after lateral internal sphincterotomy.

Background: Lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS) can cause fecal incontinence. The aim of this study was to evaluate this sequelae after long-term follow-up of patients treated by LIS and to identify possible associated factors.

Methods: Data were retrospectively collected for patients with chronic anal fissure who had LIS between 1994 and 1997.