Colonoscopy – patient preparation
Monika Wdowiak1, Bartosz Kabała1, Monika Pelczar1, Piotr Wosiewicz1, Marcin Romańczyk2,3, Bartosz Ostrowski1
Affiliation and address for correspondenceColonoscopy is an endoscopic procedure used to examine the lining of the colon and the terminal ileum. The examination is used in the diagnosis and treatment of colon diseases. In many countries, colonoscopy is employed as a population screening tool to detect colorectal cancer. In Poland, according to data from the Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, over one million colonoscopies were performed as part of the Screening Program between 2000 and 2021. Although adequate bowel preparation is essential for high-quality colonoscopy, it is performed incorrectly in up to 9.9% of patients, limiting mucosal visualisation and necessitating repeat procedures. The methods used vary in effectiveness, tolerance, and impact on patient comfort. Recent have focused on optimising procedures by adjusting preparation agents, administration protocols, and dietary guidelines. Effective preparation enhances the detection of pathological changes and improves patient acceptance of colonoscopy as a diagnostic and screening tool. The aim of this paper was to discuss the latest guidelines on patient preparation for colonoscopy, including intestinal cleansing, modification of antiplatelet and anticoagulant treatment, which directly translate into the quality of the procedure and patient safety.









