Defecography: principles of technique and interpretation

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Gastroenterology
• Pelvic Floor Disorders

Background:

• Defecography is an essential functional imaging examination for evaluating anorectal and pelvic floor dysfunction.
• Understanding normal defecography findings is crucial for accurate diagnosis of various pelvic floor pathologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of defecography, including its performance, normal physiological findings, and common pathological conditions.
• To discuss specific pathologies evaluated by defecography, such as rectal intussusception, rectocele, and pelvic floor dysfunction syndromes.

Main Methods:

• Review of defecography technique and interpretation.
• Discussion of key pathologies visualized during defecography.

Main Results:

• Detailed description of normal defecography performance and physiological parameters.
• Identification and explanation of major defecographic findings for conditions including intra-anal and extra-anal rectal intussusception, mucosal prolapse, rectocele, descending perineum syndrome, spastic pelvic floor syndrome, and solitary rectal ulcer syndrome.
• Reporting on radiation dose considerations and potential pitfalls in defecography.

Conclusions:

• Defecography is a vital tool for diagnosing a spectrum of pelvic floor disorders.
• Accurate interpretation of defecography requires knowledge of normal findings and common pathological presentations, alongside awareness of radiation exposure and technical challenges.