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Updated: Apr 25, 2026

Fecal Microbiota Transplantation via Colonoscopy for Recurrent C. difficile Infection

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Published on: December 8, 2014

Fecal impaction.

Zilla H Hussain¹, Diana A Whitehead, Brian E Lacy

¹Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Area 4C 1 Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH, 03756, USA, Zilla.H.Hussain@hitchcock.org.

Current Gastroenterology Reports

|August 15, 2014

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Fecal impaction (FI) is a serious condition, often preventable, particularly in at-risk groups. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to avoid severe complications and reduce healthcare costs.

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Published on: September 11, 2012

Area of Science:

Gastroenterology
Colorectal Surgery
Geriatric Medicine

Background:

Fecal impaction (FI) is a prevalent and potentially severe condition affecting all age groups.
High-risk populations include children, incapacitated individuals, and institutionalized elderly patients.
FI often stems from chronic constipation, anorectal abnormalities, or gastrointestinal motility disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

To highlight the significance of early recognition and prompt management of fecal impaction.
To outline diagnostic approaches and treatment strategies for fecal impaction.
To emphasize preventive measures against fecal impaction recurrence.

Main Methods:

Comprehensive patient history and physical examination.
Diagnostic imaging, including abdominal series and computed tomography (CT) scans.
Therapeutic interventions such as manual disimpaction, enemas, rectal lavage, and contrast media administration.

Main Results:

Prompt identification and treatment of FI mitigate risks of serious complications like bowel obstruction, perforation, and cardiopulmonary collapse.
Various treatment modalities exist, ranging from conservative measures to surgical intervention for severe cases.
Preventive strategies are essential due to the commonality of FI recurrence.

Conclusions:

Fecal impaction requires vigilant recognition and timely intervention to prevent severe morbidity and mortality.
A multi-faceted approach combining diagnostic evaluation, effective treatment, and proactive prevention is key.
Long-term management should focus on lifestyle modifications and addressing underlying causes to minimize recurrence.