From the Research
Colonoscopy Preparation and Hypothermia
- There is no direct evidence to suggest that colonoscopy preparation causes hypothermia 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
- However, colonoscopy preparation can cause electrolyte imbalances, including hyponatremia and hypokalemia, which can lead to serious complications 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
- The risk of electrolyte imbalances seems to be related to the type of bowel cleansing solution used, the age of the patient, and their comorbidities 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
Electrolyte Imbalances and Colonoscopy Preparation
- Sodium phosphate-based solutions and sodium picosulfate/magnesium citrate are more commonly associated with electrolyte imbalances than polyethylene glycol-based solutions 1, 2, 3, 4.
- Patients older than 65, those with chronic kidney disease, heart failure, or a history of electrolyte problems, and those taking certain medications such as diuretics or antidepressants are at higher risk of developing electrolyte imbalances 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Hypokalemia is frequently encountered after low-volume polyethylene glycol bowel cleansing in high-risk patients, and diuretic users are more likely to develop hypokalemia than those who do not use diuretics 5.
Prevention and Management of Electrolyte Imbalances
- Patients at risk should be closely monitored during bowel cleansing, and their metabolic profile should be checked before bowel cleansing 1, 2, 3.
- Macrogol-based solutions (polyethylene glycol) are recommended for patients at risk of electrolyte imbalances 1, 2, 3.
- Medications with the potential to cause fluid and electrolyte disturbances, such as diuretics and antidepressants, should be stopped or reduced in dose while the patient is undergoing bowel preparation 1.