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Defaecography: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Treatment Options

Spencer Powell

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Published in Investigation Of Anorectal Functional Disorders: With Special Emphasis On Defaecography

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Investigation of Anorectal Functional Disorders: With Special Emphasis on Defaecography

by Edward C. Benzel

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	18271 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	310 pages

Defaecography is a specialized medical imaging technique that provides detailed visualization of the rectum and anal canal during defecation, enabling the detection of underlying conditions affecting bowel function and assisting in the development of appropriate treatment strategies. It is commonly used to evaluate individuals with suspected defecation disorders, such as constipation, fecal incontinence, and obstructed defecation.

Principles of Defaecography

Defaecography involves the insertion of a small amount of radiopaque contrast material into the rectum and subsequent imaging using fluoroscopy or X-ray. The patient is then asked to attempt defecation while the images are captured, allowing for dynamic assessment of the pelvic floor muscles, anal sphincters, and rectal anatomy during the process of bowel evacuation.

Procedure

Defaecography is typically performed in a radiology department or specialized imaging center. The procedure typically involves the following steps:

* The patient will be asked to change into a hospital gown and remove any clothing or jewelry that may interfere with the imaging. * The patient will be positioned on a fluoroscopy table and a small amount of radiopaque contrast material will be inserted into the rectum using a catheter. * The patient will be asked to attempt defecation while lying on the table. * The radiologist will capture X-ray images or fluoroscopic video sequences of the rectum and anal canal during defecation. * The patient may be asked to perform specific maneuvers, such as coughing or straining, to facilitate visualization of the pelvic floor muscles and anal sphincters.

Diagnostic Capabilities

Defaecography provides detailed images of the rectum and anal canal during defecation, enabling the detection of a wide range of underlying conditions that may be contributing to defecation disorders. These conditions include:

* Pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, such as paradoxical contraction of the puborectalis muscle * Anal sphincter dysfunction, such as anal sphincter weakness or hypertonicity * Rectocele, a prolapse of the rectum into the vagina * Enterocele, a prolapse of the small intestine into the vagina * Sigmoid colon prolapse, a prolapse of the sigmoid colon into the rectum * Rectal prolapse, a prolapse of the rectum through the anus

Treatment Options

The treatment options for the underlying conditions identified through defaecography will depend on the specific diagnosis and the severity of the condition. Treatment options may include:

* Pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation therapy to strengthen or relax the pelvic floor muscles and improve coordination during defecation * Biofeedback therapy to improve awareness and control of the pelvic floor muscles and anal sphincters * Electrical stimulation therapy to stimulate the pelvic floor muscles and improve their function * Surgery to correct structural abnormalities, such as rectocele or enterocele * Medications to improve bowel function or relax the anal sphincters

Common Questions and Misconceptions

* Is defaecography painful? Defaecography is generally not painful, but some patients may experience mild discomfort during the insertion of the contrast material or during defecation. * Is defaecography safe? Defaecography is a safe and well-tolerated procedure. The radiation exposure is minimal and the risk of complications is low. * How long does defaecography take? The procedure usually takes about 30-60 minutes. * What should I do to prepare for defaecography? You may be asked to follow a clear liquid diet for 1-2 days before the procedure to minimize stool in the colon. You may also be asked to take a laxative or enema the night before the procedure to ensure that your bowels are empty.

Defaecography is a valuable diagnostic tool for the evaluation of defecation disorders, providing detailed visualization of the rectum and anal canal during defecation and enabling the detection of underlying conditions that may be contributing to impaired bowel function. The information obtained from defaecography assists healthcare professionals in developing appropriate treatment strategies to address these conditions and improve bowel function.

Investigation of Anorectal Functional Disorders: With Special Emphasis on Defaecography

by Edward C. Benzel

5 out of 5