OBJECTIVES: The present study aims to analyze bowel preparation for colonoscopy with mannitol compared to polyethylene glycol (PEG). Variables were the cost of preparation, patient acceptance, efficacy, and biochemical imbalances due to the use. METHODS: A randomized, double-blind, unicentric clinical trial was designed. Patients already submitted to colonoscopies were excluded. Haematocrit, sodium, potassium, and chloride were evaluated before and after the administration. Symptom and efficacy scores were determined, and the cost was calculated by the average volume of solution necessary to produce a clear-liquid passage. RESULTS: It took one liter more of PEG solution to obtain an acceptable preparation. Yet, the compliance to that medication was better. The evaluation of quality by the endoscopist was superior in the mannitol group. Biochemical alterations were not significant, and a comparable cost was observed. CONCLUSION: Mannitol, despite causing more symptoms in patients, is more effective to clean the bowel lumen. Recent international consensus statements do not endorse the use of manitol, but it proves to be safe and efficient. PEG becomes cost-effective when bought over-the-counter by patients, but in hospital environment, mannitol is less expensive.
Mannitol; polyethylene glycol; colonoscopy; cost and cost analysis; bowel preparation
