Same-day versus separate-day sigmoidoscopy and double contrast barium enema: a randomized controlled study.

A randomized controlled study was carried out in 400 patients to investigate whether same-day sigmoidoscopy impairs the quality of a double contrast barium enema. There was no difference with regard to spasm, fluid, and air retention as well as barium coat in patients undergoing both procedures during the same day or on different days. The overall quality of the radiographic films received similar ratings in a blind appraisal by an outside radiologist. In contrast, the performance of sigmoidoscopy was facilitated by the more thorough bowel cleansing for same-day procedures. It is concluded that same-day sigmoidoscopy and double contrast barium enema diminishes the cost and patient discomfort for colonic investigation without impairing its quality, provided that CO2 instead of air is used during the endoscopic study.