The success of colonoscopy is closely related to the quality of colonic preparation. However,
data regarding colonoscopy preparations in the elderly (65 years older) are scarce.
Split-dosage cathartic bowel preparation are currently suggested, whereas supporting evidence
is lacking in this particular group of patients. Moreover, patient tolerability is a key
factor for success of bowel preparation in the aged people.
The purpose of this study is to compare the bowel cleansing efficacy and patient compliance
of following bowel preparation methods prior to elective outpatient colonoscopy in the
elderly: (1) standard preparation of 4 liters (L) PEG-3350 solution on the night before
colonoscopy, (2) split-dose of 4L PEG-3350 solution, and (3) split-dose of reduced volume
[2L] PEG-3350 containing ascorbic acid solution.