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Virtual Colonoscopy Preparation

One-Day Bowel Prep for CT Virtual Colonoscopy

Follow the instructions below very carefully. The instructions have been tested to ensure they minimize discomfort while producing a clean bowel. An incompletely clean bowel may mean that the test will have to be repeated. More importantly, if the bowel is not clean, remaining stool can hide serious conditions that may be present. If you have any questions contact us at 514-626-5888.

You will get in a bag:

1. 1 box of Purgodan. Ignore package insert and follow instructions below.
2. Two BISACODYL rectal suppositories
3. Oral Barium solution (total of 450cc in one bottle taken in two drinks)
4. 2 Straws

Eat a normal diet up to and including 2 days prior to test. After a normal evening meal two nights before test:

1. Start clear fluid diet. Includes water, juices without pulp such as white grape juice, cranberry or cranapple, decaffeinated coffee, decaffeinated soft drinks, popsicles, and weak tea without milk or cream. Broth, bouillon, and Boost are also acceptable clear fluids. Avoid all milk products. Do not just drink water as you may feel faint.
2. You may take normal medications as directed. If you are on insulin, ask your physician about dose modifications.
3. Place Barium in refrigerator.

DAY BEFORE TEST

Breakfast:

1. Dissolve first package of Purgodan in a glass of cold water stirring constantly for two to three minutes until all dissolved. If the solution heats while stirring, let it cool or add more cold water before drinking. Drink this glass followed by an equal or larger glass of juice. Drink 4 or 5 more glasses of clear fluid over the next hour. You will experience frequent bowel movements within an hour. Stay close to a washroom. Wet wipes are easier than toilet paper.
2. Take first 250 mls of Barium. (easier to drink with a straw)
3. Can have other clear fluids from list above.
4. You may take normal medications as directed. If you are on insulin, ask your physician about dose modifications.

Snack: Popsicles or decaffeinated soft drink

Lunch: Broth or Bouillon or Boost.

Snack: Popsicles or decaffeinated soft drink

Dinner about 5 to 6 PM:

1. Dissolve second package of Purgodan in a glass of cold water stirring constantly for two to three minutes until all dissolved. If the solution heats while stirring, let it cool or add more cold water before drinking. Drink this glass followed by an equal or larger glass of juice. Drink 4 or 5 more glasses of clear fluid over the next hour. You will experience frequent bowel movements within an hour. Stay close to a washroom.
2. Take remaining Barium.
3. Can have other clear fluids as desired.
4. You may take normal medications as directed. If you are on insulin, ask your physician about dose modifications.

8 PM: Insert one rectal suppository. This should empty your bowel of any residual fluid.

No fluids after midnight except sips of fluid for any medications in the AM

 

DAY OF TEST

In AM about 2 hours before test:

1. Insert second rectal suppository
2. Sips of fluid for any normal medications as directed. If you are on insulin, ask your physician about dose modifications.
3. Try to empty bowel one last time just before the test to ensure little fluid is left before the test.

AFTER THE TEST: Resume normal diet and medications