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Neshatian L, Triadafilopoulos G, Wallace S, Jawahar A, Sheth V, Shen S, Gurland B. Increased Grades of Rectal Intussusception: Role of Decline in Pelvic Floor Integrity and Association With Dyssynergic Defecation. Am J Gastroenterol 2024; 119:946-956. [PMID: 37975595 DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000002605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The natural history of rectal intussusception (RI) is poorly understood. We hypothesized that decline in pelvic floor integrity and function leads to increasing RI grades. METHODS Retrospective analysis of a registry of patients with defecatory disorders with high-resolution anorectal manometry and magnetic resonance defecography was performed. Association of risk factors on increasing RI grades was assessed using logistic regression. RESULTS Analysis included a total of 238 women: 90 had no RI, 43 Oxford 1-2, 49 Oxford 3, and 56 Oxford 4-5. Age ( P = 0.017), vaginal delivery ( P = 0.008), and prior pelvic surgery ( P = 0.032) were associated with increased Oxford grades. Obstructive defecation symptoms and dyssynergic defecation were observed at relatively high rates across groups. Increased RI grades were associated with less anal relaxation at simulated defecation yet, higher rates of normal balloon expulsion ( P < 0.05), linked to diminished anal sphincter. Indeed, increased RI grades were associated with worsening fecal incontinence severity, attributed to higher rates of anal hypotension. Levator ani laxity, defined by increased levator hiatus length and its excessive descent at straining, was associated with increasing RI grades, independent of age, history of vaginal delivery, and pelvic surgeries and could independently predict increased RI grades. Concurrent anterior and posterior compartments, and visceral prolapse were associated with higher Oxford grades. DISCUSSION Our data suggest that decline in pelvic floor integrity with abnormal levator ani laxity is associated with increased RI grades, a process that is independent of age, history of vaginal deliveries, and/or pelvic surgeries, and perhaps related to dyssynergic defecation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Neshatian
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - George Triadafilopoulos
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Shannon Wallace
- Women's Health Institute, Division of Urogynecology and Pelvic Floor Disorders, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Anugayathri Jawahar
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Vipul Sheth
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Sa Shen
- Quantitative Sciences Unit, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Brooke Gurland
- Division of Colorectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
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Scott SM, Simrén M, Farmer AD, Dinning PG, Carrington EV, Benninga MA, Burgell RE, Dimidi E, Fikree A, Ford AC, Fox M, Hoad CL, Knowles CH, Krogh K, Nugent K, Remes-Troche JM, Whelan K, Corsetti M. Chronic constipation in adults: Contemporary perspectives and clinical challenges. 1: Epidemiology, diagnosis, clinical associations, pathophysiology and investigation. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2021; 33:e14050. [PMID: 33263938 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.14050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic constipation is a prevalent disorder that affects patients' quality of life and consumes resources in healthcare systems worldwide. In clinical practice, it is still considered a challenge as clinicians frequently are unsure as to which treatments to use and when. Over a decade ago, a Neurogastroenterology & Motility journal supplement devoted to the investigation and management of constipation was published (2009; 21 (Suppl.2)). This included seven articles, disseminating all themes covered during a preceding 2-day meeting held in London, entitled "Current perspectives in chronic constipation: a scientific and clinical symposium." In October 2018, the 3rd London Masterclass, entitled "Contemporary management of constipation" was held, again over 2 days. All faculty members were invited to author two new review articles, which represent a collective synthesis of talks presented and discussions held during this meeting. PURPOSE This article represents the first of these reviews, addressing epidemiology, diagnosis, clinical associations, pathophysiology, and investigation. Clearly, not all aspects of the condition can be covered in adequate detail; hence, there is a focus on particular "hot topics" and themes that are of contemporary interest. The second review addresses management of chronic constipation, covering behavioral, conservative, medical, and surgical therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Mark Scott
- Centre for Neuroscience, Surgery & Trauma, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Magnus Simrén
- Department of Internal Medicine & Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Center for Functional GI and Motility Disorders, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Adam D Farmer
- Centre for Neuroscience, Surgery & Trauma, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.,Institute of Applied Clinical Science, University of Keele, Keele, UK
| | - Philip G Dinning
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Medical Centre, Flinders University & Discipline of Gastroenterology, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Emma V Carrington
- Centre for Neuroscience, Surgery & Trauma, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.,Surgical Professorial Unit, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Marc A Benninga
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rebecca E Burgell
- Department of Gastroenterology, Alfred Health and Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Eirini Dimidi
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Asma Fikree
- Centre for Neuroscience, Surgery & Trauma, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.,Gastroenterology Department, Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Alexander C Ford
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St. James's, Leeds Gastroenterology Institute, Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Mark Fox
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.,Digestive Function: Basel, Laboratory and Clinic for Motility Disorders and Functional Gastrointestinal Diseases, Centre for Integrative Gastroenterology, Klinik Arlesheim, Arlesheim, Switzerland
| | - Caroline L Hoad
- Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.,NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre (BRC), Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Charles H Knowles
- Centre for Neuroscience, Surgery & Trauma, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Klaus Krogh
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Karen Nugent
- Department of Surgery, Southampton University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Jose Maria Remes-Troche
- Digestive Physiology and Motility Lab, Medical Biological Research Institute, Universidad Veracruzana, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Kevin Whelan
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Maura Corsetti
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre (BRC), Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham University, Nottingham, UK.,Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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Clinical Impact of Rectal Hyposensitivity: A Cross-Sectional Study of 2,876 Patients With Refractory Functional Constipation. Am J Gastroenterol 2021; 116:758-768. [PMID: 33982946 DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000001039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Normal bowel function requires intact sensory pathways. Diminished rectal sensation (rectal hyposensitivity [RH]) is associated with constipation, although its clinical importance remains unclear. METHODS Consecutive patients (aged 18-80) attending a tertiary center (2004-2016) for investigation of refractory functional constipation (Rome IV core criteria defined, applied post hoc) were included. Patients completed a clinical symptom questionnaire and underwent anorectal physiologic investigations, including rectal sensory testing (balloon distension) to determine 3 well-established sensory thresholds. Multivariate regression analyses were performed to evaluate associations between RH, symptomology, and allied physiologic investigations. RESULTS Of 2,876 patients meeting inclusion criteria, 722 (25%) had RH based on ≥1 elevated sensory thresholds (0: n = 2,154 [74.9%]; 1: n = 327 [11.4%]; 2: n = 209 [7.3%]; and 3: n = 186 [6.5%]). A linear relationship existed between increasing number of elevated sensory thresholds and constipation severity (Cleveland Clinic constipation score: mean difference per threshold [95% confidence interval] 0.69 [0.48-0.90]; P < 0.001). Several symptoms were significantly (P < 0.05) associated with RH including: infrequent defecation (odds ratio 1.29 [1.17-1.42]), painful evacuation (1.15 [1.05-1.27]), prolonged toileting (1.14 [1.05-1.24]), and digitation or enema use (1.18 [1.08-1.30]). On defecography, a "functional" evacuation disorder was also associated with RH (1.37 [1.25-1.50], P < 0.001), as was megarectum (2.52 [2.08-3.05], P < 0.001). DISCUSSION RH occurs in 25% of patients with refractory functional constipation. Increased number of elevated sensory thresholds is associated with more severe constipation phenotype. These data, in the largest study to date, provide for the first time evidence to show that RH is a major pathophysiologic mechanism in constipation, with recognized clinical impact (http://links.lww.com/AJG/B765).(Equation is included in full-text article.).
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Verkuijl SJ, Trzpis M, Broens PMA. Normal Rectal Filling Sensations in Patients with an Enlarged Rectum. Dig Dis Sci 2019; 64:1312-1319. [PMID: 30003387 PMCID: PMC6548060 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-018-5201-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increased rectal volume is believed to be associated with diminished rectal sensation, i.e., rectal hyposensitivity. AIMS To demonstrate that patients with increased rectal volumes do not automatically have diminished rectal filling sensations. METHODS We, retrospectively, observed 100 adult patients with defecation problems, and 44 healthy controls who had undergone anorectal function tests. Using the balloon retention test, we analyzed the distribution of rectal volumes and pressures at different rectal filling sensation levels. RESULTS We found variance in the distribution of rectal volumes at all levels, while rectal pressures showed a normal distribution. We found no correlation between rectal volumes and pressures (constant sensation, r = 0.140, P = 0.163, urge sensation, r = - 0.090, P = 0.375, and maximum tolerable volumes, r = - 0.091, P = 0.366), or when taking age and sex into account. The findings for the patient group were congruent with those for the control group. CONCLUSIONS Participants with increased rectal volumes do not experience increased rectal pressures at any sensation level. This finding, combined with the knowledge that rectal pressure triggers rectal filling sensation, indicates that rectal filling sensations in patients with increased rectal volumes are not diminished. Therefore, "rectal hyposensitivity" should be reserved for patients with increased rectal pressure thresholds, and not for "abnormally" increased rectal volume thresholds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanne J. Verkuijl
- 0000 0000 9558 4598grid.4494.dDepartment of Surgery, Anorectal Physiology Laboratory, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Monika Trzpis
- 0000 0000 9558 4598grid.4494.dDepartment of Surgery, Anorectal Physiology Laboratory, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Paul M. A. Broens
- 0000 0000 9558 4598grid.4494.dDepartment of Surgery, Anorectal Physiology Laboratory, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands ,0000 0000 9558 4598grid.4494.dDepartment of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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Tsunoda A, Takahashi T, Hayashi K, Yagi Y, Kusanagi H. Laparoscopic ventral rectopexy in patients with fecal incontinence associated with rectoanal intussusception: prospective evaluation of clinical, physiological and morphological changes. Tech Coloproctol 2018; 22:425-431. [PMID: 29956002 DOI: 10.1007/s10151-018-1811-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physiological changes after laparoscopic ventral rectopexy (LVR) in patients with rectoanal intussusception (RAI) remain unclear. This study was undertaken to evaluate physiological and morphological changes after LVR for RAI, and to study clinical outcomes following LVR with special reference to fecal incontinence (FI). METHODS The study was conducted on patients who had LVR for RAI between February 2012 and December 2016 at our institution Patients with RAI and FI were included in the study. Patients with RAI and obstructed defecation and those with RAI and neurologic FI were not included. The patients had anorectal manometry preoperatively, and 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Defecography was performed before and 6 months after the procedure. FI was evaluated using the Fecal Incontinence Severity Index (FISI). RESULTS There were 34 patients (median age 77 years (range 60-93) years). Thirty-two patients (94%) were female and the median number of vaginal deliveries was 2 (range 0-5). Neither maximum resting pressure nor maximum squeeze pressure increased postoperatively. There was an overall increase in both defecatory desire volume (median preoperative 75 ml vs. 90 ml at 12 months; p = 0.002) and maximum tolerated volume (median preoperative 145 ml vs.175 ml at 12 months; p = 0.002). Postoperatively, RAI was eliminated in all patients but one, although 13 had residual rectorectal intussusception found at defecography. There was an overall reduction in both rectocele size (median preop 29 mm vs. postop 10 mm; p = 0.008) and pelvic floor descent (median preop 26 mm vs. postop 20 mm; p = 0.005). Twelve months after surgery, a reduction of at least 50% was observed in the FISI score for 31 incontinent patients (91%). CONCLUSIONS LVR for RAI produced adequate improvement of FI, and successful anatomical correction of RAI was confirmed by postoperative proctography. Postoperative increase in the rectal volume may have a positive effect on continence.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Tsunoda
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Kameda Medical Center, Kamogawa, Japan.
| | - T Takahashi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Kameda Medical Center, Kamogawa, Japan
| | - K Hayashi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Kameda Medical Center, Kamogawa, Japan
| | - Y Yagi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Kameda Medical Center, Kamogawa, Japan
| | - H Kusanagi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Kameda Medical Center, Kamogawa, Japan
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Cariou de Vergie L, Venara A, Duchalais E, Frampas E, Lehur PA. Internal rectal prolapse: Definition, assessment and management in 2016. J Visc Surg 2016; 154:21-28. [PMID: 27865742 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviscsurg.2016.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Internal rectal prolapse (IRP) is a well-recognized pelvic floor disorder mainly seen during defecatory straining. The symptomatic expression of IRP is complex, encompassing fecal continence (56%) and/or evacuation disorders (85%). IRP cannot be characterized easily by clinical examination alone and the emergence of dynamic defecography (especially MRI) has allowed a better comprehension of its pathophysiology and led to the proposition of a severity score (Oxford score) that can guide management. Decision for surgical management should be multidisciplinary, discussed after a complete work-up, and only after medical treatment has failed. Information should be provided to the patient, outlining the goals of treatment, the potential complications and results. Stapled trans-anal rectal resection (STARR) has been considered as the gold standard for IRP treatment. However, inconsistent results (failure observed in up to 20% of cases, and fecal incontinence occurring in up to 25% of patients at one year) have led to a decrease in its indications. Laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy has substantial advantages in solving the functional problems due to IRP (efficacy on evacuation and resolution of continence symptoms in 65-92%, and 73-97% of patients, respectively) and is currently considered as the gold standard therapy for IRP once the decision to operate has been made.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Cariou de Vergie
- Clinique de chirurgie digestive et endocrinienne, Hôtel-Dieu, CHU de Nantes, 1, place Alexis-Ricordeau, 44000 Nantes, France; Maternité, hôpital Mère-Enfant, CHU de Nantes, 1, place Alexis-Ricordeau, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - A Venara
- Clinique de chirurgie générale et digestive, 49000 Angers, France
| | - E Duchalais
- Clinique de chirurgie digestive et endocrinienne, Hôtel-Dieu, CHU de Nantes, 1, place Alexis-Ricordeau, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - E Frampas
- Radiologie centrale, Hôtel-Dieu, CHU de Nantes, 1, place Alexis-Ricordeau, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - P A Lehur
- Clinique de chirurgie digestive et endocrinienne, Hôtel-Dieu, CHU de Nantes, 1, place Alexis-Ricordeau, 44000 Nantes, France.
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Townsend DC, Carrington EV, Grossi U, Burgell RE, Wong JYJ, Knowles CH, Scott SM. Pathophysiology of fecal incontinence differs between men and women: a case-matched study in 200 patients. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2016; 28:1580-8. [PMID: 27206812 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.12858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2015] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fecal incontinence (FI) is a common and socially disabling condition with obstetric trauma considered the principal etiological factor. This study aimed to systematically evaluate symptom presentation and anorectal function in both females and males with FI. METHODS One hundred males (M) and 100 age-matched females (F) with FI presenting between 2012 and 2014 were identified from a prospectively collected database. Comparison of clinical (history, symptom profile, and severity using validated questionnaires) and anorectal physiological (manometry, rectal sensory testing, endoanal ultrasonography, and evacuation proctography) data between M and F was performed. KEY RESULTS Incidence of prior anal surgery (M: 28% vs F: 18%, p = 0.13) and abdominal surgery (M: 25% vs F: 26%, p = 0.90) was similar between sexes, but females had a higher incidence of previous pelvic surgery (M: 4% vs F: 47%, p < 0.001). Eighty-five females were parous and 75% reported history of traumatic vaginal delivery. There was a trend toward higher St Mark's incontinence scores in females (mean ± SD; M: 13 ± 4 vs F: 14 ± 5, p = 0.06). In men, structural sphincter abnormalities were uncommon (M: 37% vs F: 77%, p < 0.001), while impaired rectal sensation (M: 24% vs F: 7%, p = 0.001) and functional disturbances of evacuation (M: 36% vs F: 13%, p = 0.001) were more common than in women. No abnormality on all tests performed was observed in twice as many males (M: 18% vs F: 9%, p = 0.10). CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES Pathophysiological mechanisms of FI differ between sexes. Anal sphincter dysfunction was an uncommon finding in males, with impaired rectal sensation and functional disturbances of evacuation much more prominent than in the female cohort. These findings are likely to impact options for symptom management.
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Affiliation(s)
- D C Townsend
- National Bowel Research Centre (NBRC) and GI Physiology Unit, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - E V Carrington
- National Bowel Research Centre (NBRC) and GI Physiology Unit, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - U Grossi
- National Bowel Research Centre (NBRC) and GI Physiology Unit, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.
| | - R E Burgell
- National Bowel Research Centre (NBRC) and GI Physiology Unit, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - J Y J Wong
- National Bowel Research Centre (NBRC) and GI Physiology Unit, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - C H Knowles
- National Bowel Research Centre (NBRC) and GI Physiology Unit, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - S M Scott
- National Bowel Research Centre (NBRC) and GI Physiology Unit, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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Yu T, Qian D, Zheng Y, Jiang Y, Wu P, Lin L. Rectal Hyposensitivity Is Associated With a Defecatory Disorder But Not Delayed Colon Transit Time in a Functional Constipation Population. Medicine (Baltimore) 2016; 95:e3667. [PMID: 27175697 PMCID: PMC4902539 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000003667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The physiological mechanism of functional constipation (FC) includes defecatory disorders and delayed colon transit. About 18% to 68% constipated patients may have rectal hyposensitivity (RH). We performed this study to investigate the association between RH and functional defecatory disorder (FDD) as well as that between RH and delayed colon transit in FC patients.A total of 218 FC patients were enrolled. The constipation severity instrument (CSI) was used to assess constipation symptoms. High-resolution anorectal manometry (HR-ARM), defecography, balloon expulsion tests, and colon transit studies were performed for each patient. RH was defined as 1 or more sensory threshold pressures raised beyond the normal range based on HR-ARM. We investigated the association between RH and constipation symptoms, and the occurrence of FDD and delayed CTT. Ninety FDD patients completed the initial phase of biofeedback treatment (BFT). We investigated the association between RH and the effect of BFT.Totally 122 (56.0%) patients had RH. The total CSI (49.82 ± 1.09 vs 41.25 ± 1.55, P = 0.023) and obstructive defecation subscale scores (23.19 ± 0.69 vs 17.07 ± 0.90, P < 0.001) were significantly higher in RH than in non-RH patients. No significant difference was observed in slow transit symptoms (21.77 ± 0.72 vs 19.90 ± 0.85, P = 0.121) or abdominal pain (6.85 ± 2.61 vs 5.00 ± 1.04, P = 0.380). The frequency of prolonged CTT was not significantly different between RH and non-RH groups (54.1% vs 58.3%, P = 0.403). RH patients rated more occurrence of FDD (72.1% vs 53.1%, P = 0.014) and dysynergic defecation (79.8% vs 50.2%, P = 0.004) than non-RH patients, whereas no differences were seen for inadequate defecatory propulsion (59.2% vs 55.0%, P = 0.589). After BFT, the proportion of "no effect" was significantly higher in the RH group than in the non-RH group (22.4% vs 9.4%, P = 0.010).RH is associated with obstructive defecation symptoms and the occurrence of FDD. Further studies are needed to detect the mechanism of RH's effect on BFT and FC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Yu
- From the Department of Gastroenterology (TY, YZ, YJ, PW, LL); Pancreas Center (DQ), the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University; Pancreas Institute (DQ), Nanjing Medical University; and Qinglongshan Mental Hospital (PW), Nanjing, China
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Krol R, Smeenk RJ, van Lin ENJT, Hopman WPM. Impact of late anorectal dysfunction on quality of life after pelvic radiotherapy. Int J Colorectal Dis 2013; 28:519-26. [PMID: 23080344 DOI: 10.1007/s00384-012-1593-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/09/2012] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Anorectal dysfunction is common after pelvic radiotherapy. This study aims to explore the relationship of subjective and objective anorectal function with quality of life (QoL) and their relative impact in patients irradiated for prostate cancer. METHODS Patients underwent anal manometry, rectal barostat measurement, and completed validated questionnaires, at least 1 year after prostate radiotherapy (range 1-7 years). QoL was measured by the Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life scale (FIQL) and the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite Bowel domain (EPICB)-bother subscale. Severity of symptoms was rated by the EPICB function subscale. RESULTS Anorectal function was evaluated in 85 men. Sixty-three percent suffered from one or more anorectal symptoms. Correlations of individual symptoms ranged from r = 0.23 to r = 0.53 with FIQL domains and from r = 0.36 to r = 0.73 with EPICB bother scores. They were strongest for fecal incontinence and urgency. Correlations of anal sphincter pressures, rectal capacity, and sensory thresholds ranged from r = 0.00 to r = 0.42 with FIQL domains and from r = 0.15 to r = 0.31 with EPICB bother scores. Anal resting pressure correlated most strongly. Standardized regression coefficients for QoL outcomes were largest for incontinence, urgency, and anal resting pressure. Regression models with subjective parameters explained a larger amount (range 26-92 %) of variation in QoL outcome than objective parameters (range 10-22 %). CONCLUSIONS Fecal incontinence and rectal urgency are the symptoms with the largest influence on QoL. Impaired anal resting pressure is the objective function parameter with the largest influence. Therefore, sparing the structures responsible for an adequate fecal continence is important in radiotherapy planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Krol
- 455 Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Radboud University Medical Centre, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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Lee TH, Lee JS, Hong SJ, Jeon SR, Kwon SH, Kim WJ, Kim HG, Cho WY, Cho JY, Kim JO, Lee JS. Rectal hyposensitivity and functional anorectal outlet obstruction are common entities in patients with functional constipation but are not significantly associated. Korean J Intern Med 2013; 28:54-61. [PMID: 23345997 PMCID: PMC3543961 DOI: 10.3904/kjim.2013.28.1.54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2011] [Revised: 01/20/2012] [Accepted: 02/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS The causes of functional anorectal outlet obstruction (outlet obstruction) include functional defecation disorder (FDD), rectocele, and rectal intussusception (RI). It is unclear whether outlet obstruction is associated with rectal hyposensitivity (RH) in patients with functional constipation (FC). The aim of this study was to determine the association between RH and outlet obstruction in patients with FC. METHODS This was a retrospective study using a prospectively collected constipation database, and the population comprised 107 patients with FC (100 females; median age, 49 years). We performed anorectal manometry, defecography, rectal barostat, and at least two tests (balloon expulsion test, electromyography, or colon transit time study). RH was defined as one or more sensory threshold pressures raised beyond the normal range on rectal barostat. We investigated the association between the presence of RH and an outlet obstruction such as large rectocele (> 2 cm in size), RI, or FDD. RESULTS Forty patients (37.4%) had RH. No significant difference was observed in RH between patients with small and large rectoceles (22 [44.9%] vs. 18 [31%], respectively; p = 0.140). No significant difference was observed in RH between the non-RI and RI groups (36 [36.7%] vs. 4 [30.8%], respectively; p = 0.599). Furthermore, no significant difference in RH was observed between the non-FDD and FDD groups (19 [35.8%] vs. 21 [38.9%], respectively; p = 0.745). CONCLUSIONS RH and outlet obstruction are common entities but appear not to be significantly associated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae Hee Lee
- Institute for Digestive Research, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Joon Seong Lee
- Institute for Digestive Research, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Su Jin Hong
- Institute for Digestive Research, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seong Ran Jeon
- Institute for Digestive Research, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Soon Ha Kwon
- Institute for Digestive Research, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Wan Jung Kim
- Institute for Digestive Research, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyun Gun Kim
- Institute for Digestive Research, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Won Young Cho
- Institute for Digestive Research, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Joo Young Cho
- Institute for Digestive Research, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin-Oh Kim
- Institute for Digestive Research, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji Sung Lee
- Division of Biostatistics, Graduate School of Public Health, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
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Burgell RE, Scott SM. Rectal hyposensitivity. J Neurogastroenterol Motil 2012; 18:373-84. [PMID: 23105997 PMCID: PMC3479250 DOI: 10.5056/jnm.2012.18.4.373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2012] [Revised: 09/05/2012] [Accepted: 09/13/2012] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Impaired or blunted rectal sensation, termed rectal hyposensitivity (RH), which is defined clinically as elevated sensory thresholds to rectal balloon distension, is associated with disorders of hindgut function, characterised primarily by symptoms of constipation and fecal incontinence. However, its role in symptom generation and the pathogenetic mechanisms underlying the sensory dysfunction remain incompletely understood, although there is evidence that RH may be due to 'primary' disruption of the afferent pathway, 'secondary' to abnormal rectal biomechanics, or to both. Nevertheless, correction of RH by various interventions (behavioural, neuromodulation, surgical) is associated with, and may be responsible for, symptomatic improvement. This review provides a contemporary overview of RH, focusing on diagnosis, clinical associations, pathophysiology, and treatment paradigms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca E Burgell
- Academic Surgical Unit (GI Physiology Unit), Wingate Institute and Neurogastroenterology Group, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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Rectal hyposensitivity for non-noxious stimuli, postprandial hypersensitivity and its correlation with symptoms in complete spinal cord injury with neurogenic bowel dysfunction. Spinal Cord 2012; 51:94-8. [PMID: 22929208 DOI: 10.1038/sc.2012.98] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Prospective clinical study. OBJECTIVES To assess fasting and postprandial (PP) perception of rectal distension and its correlation with symptoms in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) and neurogenic bowel dysfunction compared to ten healthy subjects (HS). SETTING Experimental Medicine and Motility Unit, Mexico General Hospital and National Institute of Rehabilitation. METHODS Twenty patients with complete SCI at cervical, thoracic and lumbar levels [American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) A] were studied. Rectal sensitivity was evaluated with a barostat. RESULTS In SCI patients, while lower the rectal tone more time was used for defecate (R=0.50, P=0.048) and more PP episodes of fecal incontinence occur (R=0.54, P=0.030). The thresholds for non-noxious stimuli of first (23.6 mmHg, CI 19.5-27.7) vs 14.0 (CI 10.9-17.1), P=0.004; gas (27.9 mmHg, CI 19.9-35.8) vs 17.9 mmHg (CI 14.25-21.69), P=0.02 and urge-to-defecate sensation (33.2 mmHg, CI 27.5-38.8) vs 22.4 mmHg (CI 17.9-26.9), P=0.01 were reported by SCI patients at higher pressure than HS, respectively. SCI patients reported PP pain sensation at a lower pressure than controls (27.8 mmHg, CI 21.5-34.2 vs 36.5 mmHg, CI 31.8-41.2), P=0.04. CONCLUSION SCI patients preserve rectal sensation, present rectal hyposensitivity for non-noxious stimuli and PP hypersensitivity. Lower rectal tone was related to the time used for defecate and with fecal incontinence. The results suggest that an intact neural transmission between the spinal cord and higher centres is indispensable for noxious stimulus, but not for non-noxious stimuli. Also, barostat sensitivity studies can complement ASIA criteria to verify a complete injury.
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Krol R, Hopman WPM, Smeenk RJ, Van Lin ENJT. Increased rectal wall stiffness after prostate radiotherapy: relation with fecal urgency. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2012; 24:339-e166. [PMID: 22235913 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2982.2011.01858.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Late anorectal toxicity is a frequent adverse event of external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) for prostate cancer. The pathophysiology of anorectal toxicity remains unknown, but we speculate that rectal distensibility is impaired due to fibrosis. Our goal was to determine whether EBRT induces changes of rectal distensibility as measured by an electronic barostat and to explore whether anorectal complaints are related to specific changes of anorectal function. METHODS Thirty-two men, irradiated for localized prostate carcinoma, underwent barostat measurements, anorectal manometry, and completed a questionnaire prior to and 1 year after radiotherapy. The primary outcome measure was rectal distensibility in response to stepwise isobaric distensions. In addition, we assessed sensory thresholds, anal pressures, and anorectal complaints. KEY RESULTS External beam radiotherapy reduced maximal rectal capacity (227 ± 14 mL vs 277 ± 15 mL; P < 0.001), area under the pressure-volume curve (3212 ± 352 mL mmHg vs 3969 ± 413 mL mmHg; P < 0.005), and rectal compliance (15.7 ± 1.2 mL mmHg(-1) vs 17.6 ± 0.9 mL mmHg(-1) ; P = 0.12). Sensory pressure thresholds did not significantly change. Sixteen of the 32 patients (50%) had one or more anorectal complaints. Patients with urgency (n = 10) had a more reduced anal squeeze and maximum pressure (decrease 29 ± 11 mmHg vs 1 ± 7 mmHg; P < 0.05 and 31 ± 12 mmHg vs 2 ± 8 mmHg; P < 0.05 respectively) compared with patients without complaints, indicating a deteriorated external anal sphincter function. CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES Irradiation for prostate cancer leads to reduced rectal distensibility. In patients with urgency symptoms, anal sphincter function was also impaired.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Krol
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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