Expert Consensus Document: Diagnosis for Chronic Constipation with Faecal Retention in the Rectum Using...

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Chronic constipation is prevalent in older adults, posing management challenges.
• Assessing constipation is difficult in patients with cognitive or physical impairments.
• Objective methods are needed to evaluate colonic fecal retention in such cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a standardized ultrasonography observation protocol for rectal fecal retention.
• To enhance the accuracy and quality of chronic constipation diagnosis, particularly rectal constipation.
• To provide a guide for healthcare professionals in diagnosing and evaluating constipation.

Main Methods:

• Convened a consensus panel of experts in constipation diagnosis and ultrasonography.
• Reviewed current literature on rectal ultrasonography for fecal retention.
• Developed an evidence-based observation protocol through expert consensus.

Main Results:

• A succinct, evidence-based observation protocol for rectal ultrasonography was created.
• The protocol aims to standardize the interpretation of ultrasonography findings for fecal retention.
• This consensus statement offers a practical guide for clinicians.

Conclusions:

• The developed protocol enhances objective assessment of colonic fecal retention.
• Ultrasonography, guided by this protocol, can improve constipation diagnosis and treatment evaluation.
• This guide supports physicians, technicians, and nurses in managing constipation.