Bowel preparation methods before colon cancer surgery

Preoperative bowel preparation is very important for colon cancer surgery. Common bowel preparation methods include oral intestinal antibiotics, laxatives, and multiple enemas, etc. Preoperative bowel preparation measures are beneficial to promote colon emptying, minimize the number of bacteria in the intestinal cavity, and reduce the risk of surgical infection.

1. Whole bowel lavage

The whole intestinal lavage method usually starts 12 to 24 hours before the operation. The lavage fluid is an isotonic electrolyte solution made of sodium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, and potassium chloride. The temperature is about 37°C, and the lavage volume cannot be less than 6000ml. The purpose is to cause volumetric diarrhea to achieve the purpose of thoroughly cleaning the intestine. The general lavage process takes 3 to 4 hours. This method should not be used for patients with intestinal obstruction, the elderly and weak, and heart and kidney dysfunction. For those with symptoms of infection, antibacterial drugs can be added to the lavage fluid.

2. Oral laxatives

For patients with colon cancer who take oral laxatives, they should start taking liquid food 2 days before surgery, take oral intestinal antibiotics, and take an oral laxative once a day. Castor oil or magnesium sulfate can be chosen, and a cleansing enema should be performed the night before surgery.

3. Oral mannitol

Oral mannitol is the simplest method for intestinal cleansing, but mannitol is easily fermented by bacteria in the intestines to produce a gas that may cause an explosion when an electric knife is used during surgery. Therefore, special attention should be paid. It should also be used with caution in elderly patients, patients with poor general physical condition, and patients with insufficient heart and kidney function.