Fecal impaction following methadone ingestion simulating acute intestinal obstruction,

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Updated: Oct 9, 2026

Functional Assessment of Intestinal Motility and Gut Wall Inflammation in Rodents: Analyses in a Standardized Model of Intestinal Manipulation
09:44

Functional Assessment of Intestinal Motility and Gut Wall Inflammation in Rodents: Analyses in a Standardized Model of Intestinal Manipulation

Published on: September 11, 2012

I A Spira, R Rubenstein, D Wolff

    Annals of Surgery
    |January 1, 1975
    PubMed

    Insights

    Methadone ingestion can cause fecal impaction, mimicking intestinal obstruction. Physicians must recognize this syndrome to avoid unnecessary surgery in patients in methadone maintenance programs.

    Area of Science:

    • Gastroenterology
    • Clinical Medicine
    • Pharmacology

    Background:

    • Methadone maintenance treatment is increasingly utilized for opioid use disorder.
    • A rare but significant complication is fecal impaction, presenting as acute intestinal obstruction.
    • This condition requires specific diagnostic and management considerations.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To describe a previously unreported clinical entity: fecal impaction secondary to methadone ingestion.
    • To analyze the nature and pathogenesis of this obstruction.
    • To propose a management strategy and raise physician awareness.

    Main Methods:

    • Case series review of five patients admitted to a surgical service.
    • Clinical presentation analysis.
    • Pathogenesis and management strategies discussed.

    Main Results:

    • Five cases of fecal impaction simulating acute intestinal obstruction following methadone ingestion were identified.
    • The study analyzes the characteristics and underlying mechanisms of this complication.
    • A management approach is suggested to prevent surgical intervention.

    Conclusions:

    • Fecal impaction mimicking intestinal obstruction is a potential complication of methadone use.
    • Increased awareness among healthcare providers is crucial, especially with the growth of methadone maintenance programs.
    • Avoiding unnecessary surgical procedures is imperative for patient safety.

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