Ultrasonography for Diagnosing Chronic Constipation with Faecal Retention
Ultrasonography, Chronic constipation, particularly in older adults, is a common and challenging gastrointestinal disorder. Diagnosing this condition, especially when patients are unable to communicate due to cognitive or physical impairments, requires objective methods. Ultrasonography (US) offers a non-invasive, safe, and effective tool for assessing fecal retention in the rectum, which is essential for diagnosing constipation and monitoring treatment efficacy.
Ultrasonography provides a clear image of the colon and rectum, enabling the detection of fecal retention. A hyperechoic half-moon-shaped area in the rectum often indicates fecal retention, with an acoustic shadow suggesting hard stool. Rectal US has shown to be particularly useful for diagnosing constipation in elderly patients, where it can reveal stool retention not visible through other diagnostic methods like X-rays or CT scans.
A standardized protocol for rectal
A standardized protocol for rectal US observation was developed through expert consensus to improve diagnostic accuracy. This protocol involves specific steps, such as ensuring patients are in a comfortable supine position and using a convex probe with a frequency of 2-5 MHz. The procedure requires careful observation of both transverse and longitudinal US images to confirm the presence, location, and volume of rectal fecal retention. It is crucial to conduct the examination when the bladder is full, and there is no food or gas retention in the abdomen to avoid interference with the images.
This protocol provides healthcare professionals, including those who do not specialize in ultrasound, a reliable guide for diagnosing constipation through rectal US. It aids in enhancing the accuracy of diagnosis, helping clinicians select appropriate treatments, and improving care for patients with chronic constipation.
