Defecating proctography: A pictorial essay

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Gastroenterology
• Pelvic Floor Disorders

Background:

• Disordered defecation presents a spectrum of debilitating symptoms.
• Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management.
• Defecating proctography is an established imaging modality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the technique of defecating proctography.
• To illustrate the range of findings associated with disordered defecation.

Main Methods:

• Review of defecating proctography technique.
• Illustrative examples of key imaging findings.

Main Results:

• Common findings include rectocoele, enterocoele, sigmoidocoele, cystocoele, intussusception, rectal prolapse, and descending perineum.
• Incomplete emptying and anismus are also significant findings.
• Faecal incontinence can be assessed.

Conclusions:

• Defecating proctography is a valuable, cost-effective tool for evaluating defecatory dysfunction.
• Findings guide multidisciplinary management strategies.
• Improved patient outcomes are achievable with appropriate intervention.