Safe use of oral bowel-cleansing preparations.

Oral bowel-cleansing agents are commonly used to prepare the bowel for colorectal surgery, and before endoscopic and radiological examination of the large intestine to ensure the bowel is free of solid contents. Good bowel preparation enhances detection of lesions, reducing the need for repeat procedures and delayed diagnosis. Knowledge of the potential risks associated with oral bowel-cleansing preparations is necessary to improve patient safety and outcomes.