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Related Experiment Videos

Megarectum in constipation.

R N van der Plas1, M A Benninga, C R Staalman

  • 1Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Academic Medical Center, G8-245, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, Netherlands. R.N.vanderplas@amc.uva.nl

Archives of Disease in Childhood
|June 27, 2000
PubMed
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Faecal impaction in constipated children is defined by rectal findings. An enlarged rectum has a rectopelvic ratio over 0.61, while megarectum involves abnormal rectal function tests.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Colorectal Surgery
  • Functional Bowel Disorders

Background:

  • Faecal impaction is common in pediatric chronic constipation.
  • The terms enlarged rectum and megarectum are often used but lack clear definitions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To establish clear definitions for faecal impaction, enlarged rectum, and megarectum.
  • To evaluate rectal functioning and measurements in constipated children with faecal impaction.

Main Methods:

  • Radiological investigation, colonic transit time study, and anorectal manometry were performed.
  • Rectal volume and rectal wall compliance were measured.
  • Patients with faecal impaction were compared to controls with empty rectums.

Main Results:

Related Experiment Videos

  • Patients showed delayed rectosigmoid transit and less rectal relaxation.
  • Rectal width was greater in patients (0.68) than controls (0.52).
  • Rectal wall compliance was similar between groups, but pressure-volume curves differed.

Conclusions:

  • Faecal impaction is a filled rectum on digital examination.
  • Enlarged rectum is defined by a rectopelvic ratio > 0.61.
  • Megarectum is characterized by abnormal anorectal manometry, pressure-volume curves, or rectal compliance, with diminished rectal relaxation being an early sign.