Bowel preparation is an integral component of elective colorectal surgery. However,
minimal data exist to support this practice. Evidence favoring and opposing bowel
preparation is presented and reviewed. The role of oral and antibiotic therapy is
similarly examined. Finally, the evolution of bowel preparation and modern methods
of preparation are discussed.
Mechanical bowel preparation - antibiotic therapy - polyethylene glycol - sodium phosphate
- anastomotic leakage - wound infection