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can't get bowel empty for planning scan

User
Posted 19 Mar 2026 at 10:53

First planning scan appt  - mini enema -

scan attempt - bowel not empty -

Nurse administered larger enema-

Still not empty enough - 

Given Ducusol laxative to take from now on - 2 a day - advised to follow low fibre/residue diet 

Come back in two weeks

Second attempt - mini enema - bowel movement
Attempted scan - bowel still not empty

Sent home to double laxative dose- so 4 a day

Another appt due in two more weeks.

I know some guys need a second go but I've had that and now really concerned I won't get this right and then be able to do it consistently for the radiotherapy.

User
Posted 19 Mar 2026 at 13:43
You could ask about Moviprep. It is designed to clear everything out but you might have several motions and need to be near a toilet for quite a time. It is often used prior to a Colonoscopy. I can vouch for its effectiveness. However, what is needed is a basis whereby you can present the same way for all your treatment and I don't think you would want to have the consequences of Moviprep prior to every fraction of RT.
Barry
User
Posted 20 Mar 2026 at 11:13

Yeah there are probably more drastic one off clearouts (as for other colonic procedures) but that is not practical for a daily month of radiotherapy later - plus you lose water so the hydration bladder balance is messed up that is also needed to line up on the day - though that has been less of a problem for me on the day. 

Edited by member 20 Mar 2026 at 11:14  | Reason: Not specified

User
Posted 20 Mar 2026 at 11:29

You could ask maybe for plenvu I think it’s called which is used before a colonoscopy. that will definitely clear you out…. you’ll need a seatbelt for the toilet and a jet wash 🤯😵‍💫🫢🫨

to compensate for Potential-dehydration make a hypotonic drink using water about 10% fruit juice and a pinch of salt. that will absorb into the body quicker than an isotonic drink. 

plenvu is something you take the night before if you have a morning appointment or very early on the day of your afternoon appointment. it’s taken in two phases with two or three hours in between as per instructions for a clinical team. and you naturally keep hydrated with the amount of liquid you drink during a procedure. 

in terms of regularity obviously that’s down to the clinical team to assess and advise. hope this helps in someway and best of luck.

maybe also think about diet. I suffer with IBSC so constipation is a part of my life. I find it can be alleviated by eating fresh vegetables, some fruit seeds, nuts and fresh meats. 

you could also maybe opt to supplement or substitute your diet if the clinical team agree with something like huel. are used to use it during gym training but packed off of it because it is full of a lot of non-fresh stuff. but it is designed to be a complete meal replacement. this may work better for a limited time to give you a solution.

or maybe even just liquidise the foods you’re taking already into like a baby food. A low residual diet….. not brilliant, but if it works, it works…

Edited by member 20 Mar 2026 at 11:37  | Reason: Not specified

 
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