[Hydroelectrolytic disturbances secondary to high flow lavage used for the prevention of posthemorrhagic encephalopathy in cirrhosis].

The authors carried out high flow intestinal lavage during gastrointestinal bleeding in cirrhotics in order to obtain rapid elimination of blood from the intestine and thereby reduce the risk of encephalopathy. The fluid used had been developed for preparation of the colon for surgery and was responsible for water and electrolyte disturbances with water and salt retention. Without criticising the principle of lavage in the prevention of encephalopathy, the authors express certain reserves with regard to the use of this solution and suggest the use of a sodium-free substance remaining within the intestinal lumen (hypertonic mannitol) which does not cause any water/electrolyte imbalance, is more effective and would appear to have a slight though definite action on the resorption of ascites.