Safety and Efficacy of Routine Colonoscopy Preparations
Colonoscopy is a routine evaluation for screening of colorectal cancer in people over 50 and
for those at increased genetic risk. Despite the large number of individuals requiring such
screening, there has been little randomized, controlled research to determine the relative
renal safety of oral colon preparation solutions that are used to evacuate the bowel in
patients with "normal" kidney function, the best frequency of laxative dosing (e.g. 1 day
vs. 2 day), and the quality of the colon cleansing that results from these different
approaches. Reports of acute renal failure, secondary to nephrocalcinosis, following the
commonly used oral phosphosoda preparation are increasingly recognized. It is our belief
that this project will yield clinically relevant information that would have immediate
clinical application for all persons receiving a colonoscopy. Since preparation for
screening colonoscopy involves vigorous purging of stool from individuals without GI
complaints, it also represents an opportunity to study the prevalence of clostridium
difficile (C. diff) in this population. This may reveal important information regarding the
epidemiology of this increasingly virulent and common enteric pathogen. A pilot screening
program for asymptomatic C. diff, a common nosocomial pathogen, may reveal findings of
clinical importance for preventing spread of this infection, and allow use of presumptive
treatment during periods of increased risk.
Observational
Time Perspective: Prospective
Renal Function (GFR, creatinine clearance)
<30 days
No
Mark A. Korsten, MD
Principal Investigator
VA Medical Center, Bronx
United States: Federal Government
B4162C-1
NCT00856440
June 2006
December 2008
Name | Location |
---|---|
VA Medical Center, Bronx | Bronx, New York 10468 |