Issue: 2006 > June > case report

Fatal aspiration of polyethylene glycol solution



CASE REPORT
P. de Graaf, C. Slagt, J.L.C.A. de Graaf, R.J.L.F. Loffeld
AbstractPDF

Abstract

Endoscopy of the colon requires adequate cleansing of
the entire bowel. Several laxative regimens have been
propagated, but bowel preparation with polyethylene glycol (PEG) solution is popular because of the easy application and good cleansing results. Although very safe in daily use, complications of this bowel-cleansing procedure have been reported and aspiration of the PEG solution is a possible and serious hazard. A case report is presented of a patient who aspirated the PEG solution and ultimately died because of respiratory failure.