Improving bowel preparation for colonoscopy in a cost effective manner.

Colonoscopy is a key investigation used to exclude large bowel pathologies including surveillance for CRC (Colorectal cancer) Poor bowel preparation (bowel prep) is one of the most important factors affecting its diagnostic yield. Different formulations of bowel prep are currently in use depending upon patient tolerance, indication & co-morbidities. In University Hospital Llandough we retrospectively reviewed the outcome of colonoscopies performed over period of 3 months, in relation to the type and outcome of bowel preparations used.

Troponin: think before you request one.

Acute myocardial infarction (ACS) is one of the most common presentations in acute hospital settings. Troponin (cTn) has emerged as one of the most sensitive biochemical markers for the diagnosis of ACS. However, if used inappropriately and in the absence of true clinical context then it can be elevated in a number of non cardiac conditions and lead to false clinical diagnosis, inappropriate workup, and increased patient stay in hospital.