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A case of fecaloma
Senthil Kumar Aiyappan1, Upasana Ranga1, Anita Samraj2
1Department of Radiodiagnosis and Imaging, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Thandalam, Kancheepuram, Tamilnadu 602105 India.
The Indian Journal of Surgery
|January 16, 2014
Summary
A large fecaloma, a mass of impacted feces, was found in a young woman with chronic constipation. The condition, typically seen in the sigmoid colon, was successfully managed without surgery.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Colorectal Surgery
Background:
- Fecalomas are hardened masses of feces that can cause significant bowel obstruction.
- They are most commonly identified in the sigmoid colon, a frequent site for fecal impaction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a case of a large fecaloma in a young adult female.
- To discuss the conservative management of fecaloma in a patient with chronic constipation.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a young adult female presenting with symptoms of severe constipation.
- Diagnostic imaging to confirm the presence and size of the fecaloma.
- Conservative management strategy involving medical and non-invasive interventions.
Main Results:
- A large fecaloma was identified in the sigmoid colon of the patient.
- The patient's condition was successfully managed through conservative treatment methods.
- Resolution of symptoms and successful defecation were achieved.
Conclusions:
- Fecalomas, though commonly occurring in the sigmoid colon, can present in younger individuals.
- Conservative management is a viable and effective approach for large fecalomas, even in young patients with chronic constipation.
- This case highlights the importance of considering conservative options before surgical intervention for fecal impaction.
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