Comparison of the Efficacy of Diluted Polyethylene Glycol and Low-Density (0.1% w/v) Barium Sulfate Suspension for CT Enterography

Abstract

Purpose To compare small bowel distension and side effects between a diluted polyethylene glycol (PEG) solution and a low-density (0.1% w/v) barium sulfate suspension (LDBSS) for CT enterography (CTE) preparation. Materials and Methods Total 173 consecutive patients who underwent CTE were enrolled in this study. The LDBSS (1 L) was used in 50 patients, and the diluted iso-osmotic PEG solution (1 L) was used in 123 patients. Two blinded radiologists independently scored jejunal and ileal distensions on a 5-point scale. To compare side effects between the two groups, the patients reported whether they had immediate complications after the administration of the oral contrast media. Results For ileal and jejunal distension, the diluted PEG solution showed no difference from the LDBSS for either reader (ileum: reader 1, median, 4; 4, interquartile range, 3–4; 3–4, p = 0.997; reader 2, median, 4; 4, interquartile range, 3.3–4.0; 3–4, p = 0.064; jejunum: reader 1, median, 2; 2, interquartile range, 2–3; 2–3, p = 0.560; reader 2, median, 3; 2, interquartile range, 2–3; 2–3, p = 0.192). None of the patients complained of immediate complications following administration of either of the oral contrast media. Conclusion The diluted PEG solution showed comparable bowel distension compared to LDBSS and no immediate side effects; thus, it can be a useful alternative.