The use of a locally prepared polyethylene glycol electrolyte lavage solution (PEG-ELS) for preoperative bowel preparation of pediatric patients undergoing colostomy/ileostomy closure was compared with a standard three day regimen.Twenty-three patients were randomly assigned to either PEG-ELS or a standard three day bowel preparation, For both groups,? there were no significant differences in the changes in the pre and post-prep body weights, hematocrit, and serum electrolytes.Patients did not exhibit? abdominal cramps nor vomiting with either preparation. Intra-operative assessment showed adequate cleansing of bowels in both procedures. Postoperative complications were?not related to the preparations.? This study shows that using a locally prepared polyethylene glycol?electrolye lavage solution may be an excellent alternative to the standard?three day bowel preparation in pediatric patients.