Efficacy of Polyethylene Glycol Electrolyte Powder Combined with Linaclotide for Bowel Preparation for Colonoscopy in Children with Functional Constipation

Constipation is an independent risk factor for failing to prepare the bowel before colonoscopy. This study used a pediatric population aged 10-17 with functional constipation to evaluate Polyethylene Glycol Electrolyte Powder (PGEP), alone or in combination with linaclotide, for bowel cleansing efficacy and safety. This retrospective study enrolled 75 children aged 10-17 years who underwent Bowel Preparation for Colonoscopy, with 43 of them receiving PGEP and 32 taking PGEP/linaclotide combination. The primary outcome was Boston Bowel Preparation Scale (BBPS) scores. A total BBPS score of at least 6 and a score of at least 2 for each bowel segment were defined as adequate bowel preparation. Adverse events and sleep quality were secondary outcomes. Compared with the PGEP group, the BBPS scores in each intestinal segment and the total BBPS score of the PGEP+linaclotide group were higher (P < 0.05). The rate of adequate bowel preparation showed no significant difference between the two groups. Compared with the PGEP group, the total examination time was lower in the PGEP+linaclotide group (P < 0.05). The first time of defecation was lower in the PGEP+linaclotide group when compared to that in PGEP group (P = 0.002). No statistically significant difference in adverse events and sleep quality was observed between the two groups. Therefore, PGEP in combination with linaclotide can be an effective option for bowel preparation prior to colonoscopy in children aged 10-17 years with functional constipation.