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Assessment of chronic constipation: colon transit time versus defecography
R W Prokesch1, M J Breitenseher, J Kettenbach
1Department of Radiology, University of Vienna, AKH, Austria. rupert.prokesch@univie.ac.at
European Journal of Radiology
|January 13, 2000
Summary
Radiological colon transit time (CTT) measurements help differentiate causes of chronic constipation. Colon transit time (CTT) and defecography (DFG) identify patients who may benefit from further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Radiology
- Colorectal Surgery
Background:
- Chronic constipation is a common condition with diverse underlying causes.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic value of radiological colon transit time (CTT) measurements.
- To assess the correlation between CTT and defecography (DFG) in patients with chronic constipation.
Main Methods:
- 30 patients with chronic constipation underwent CTT using radiopaque markers.
- Total and segmental CTT were analyzed.
- Defecography (DFG) was performed on all patients, who were categorized into three groups based on DFG findings: idiopathic constipation, rectal intussusception, and rectal prolapse/spastic pelvic floor syndrome.
Main Results:
- Idiopathic constipation (Group I) showed increased total and segmental CTT.
- Rectal intussusception (Group II) presented with normal total CTT and reduced rectosigmoidal CTT.
- Rectal prolapse/spastic pelvic floor syndrome (Group III) exhibited significantly elevated total and rectosigmoidal CTT.
- Significant differences in total and rectosigmoidal CTT were observed between the groups.
Conclusions:
- Colon transit time (CTT) measurements are valuable in identifying the specific pathophysiology of chronic constipation.
- CTT can aid in selecting patients who would benefit from defecography (DFG).