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Published on: April 17, 2019

Manometric assessment of idiopathic megarectum in constipated children

Giuseppe Chiarioni1, Giuseppe de Roberto, Alessandro Mazzocchi

  • 1Clinica di Gastroenterologia ed Epatologia Via Enrico Dal Pozzo, Padiglione W, Perugia 06100, Italy.

World Journal of Gastroenterology
|November 8, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Constipated children with megarectum (enlarged rectum) often have impaired pelvic floor function and abnormal rectal sensation. This study highlights key differences in anorectal function for better understanding this condition.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Colorectal Physiology

Background:

  • Chronic constipation is common in children, often co-occurring with megarectum.
  • Megarectum definitions vary, with limited data specific to Italian pediatric populations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate anorectal manometric variables and sensation in constipated children with radiologically defined megarectum.
  • To compare these findings with children experiencing recurrent abdominal pain.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized standard anorectal manometry techniques.
  • Administered rectal balloon expulsion tests.
  • Included a control group of children with recurrent abdominal pain.

Main Results:

  • Children with megarectum showed distinct abnormalities in anorectal variables and sensation compared to controls.
  • Pelvic floor dysfunction was identified in the majority of megarectum patients.

Conclusions:

  • Constipated children with megarectum exhibit abnormal anorectal function and sensation.
  • These functional and sensory deficits may underlie the pathophysiology of this condition.
Abstract

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