A new defecographic parameter for assessing rectal emptying / Um novo parâmetro defecográfico para avaliar o esvaziamento retal

ABSTRACT Purpose: To validate a new defecographic parameter to assess rectal empyting correlating the percentage of weight reduction of barium paste and the variation in the percentage of area reduction of rectum compared before and after defecation during cinedefecography. Method: Thirty-two consecutive female patients with dyschezia who had clinical indication for cinedefecography were selected. Their median age was 58 years old (18-78 years, mean = 55 years). During cinedefecography, we calculated the cross-sectional sagittal area of the rectum before and after defecation and, thus, the percentage of area reduction of the rectum. The percentage of weight reduction of barium paste was calculated after weighing the contrast injected into the rectum and the amount of contrast evacuated, in grams, using a scale. Finally, both percentages were compared and checked for a correlation between them. Pearson's correlation (r) and Student's t test were used for statistical analysis. Results: A correlation between evacuated barium paste and cross-sectional sagittal area of the rectum at the end of defecation was demonstrated (r = 0.668 and p < 0.0001). Conclusion: It is possible to estimate how much barium paste is evacuated based on the variations in cross-sectional sagittal area of the rectum before and after defecation, in cinedefecography.

RESUMO Objetivo: Validar um novo parâmetro defecográfico para avaliar o esvaziamento retal correlacionando o percentual de redução de peso da pasta baritada e a variação da porcentagem da redução da área do reto antes e depois da evacuação durante o exame de cinedefecografia. Métodos: Foram selecionadas 32 pacientes consecutivas do sexo feminino, portadoras de disquezia, com indicação clínica de investigação por cinedefecografia. A mediana de idade da amostra foi 58 anos (18-78 anos, média de 55 anos). Durante o exame de cinedefecografia, calcularam-se as áreas retais pela secção sagital antes e após a defecação e, assim, o percentual de redução da área retal. O percentual de redução do peso do contraste baritado foi calculado após medidas de peso do contraste injetado no reto e da quantidade de contraste evacuado, em gramas, utilizando uma balança. Por fim, os percentuais foram comparados e verificou-se se havia correlação entre eles. Para análise estatística, foram utilizados correlação de Pearson (r)eT este t de Student. Resultados: Foi observada correlação entre o contraste baritado evacuado e a área retal pela secção sagital ao final da evacuação (r = 0.668; p < 0.0001). Conclusões: É possível estimar o percentual de contraste baritado evacuado através da análise da variação da área retal pela secção sagital antes e após a evacuação, utilizando a cinedefecografia.

Dynamic translabial ultrasound versus echodefecography combined with the endovaginal approach to assess pelvic floor dysfunctions: How effective are these techniques?

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of dynamic translabial ultrasound (TLUS) in the assessment of pelvic floor dysfunction and compare the results with echodefecography (EDF) combined with the endovaginal approach. METHODS: Consecutive female patients with pelvic floor dysfunction were eligible. Each patient was assessed with EDF combined with the endovaginal approach and TLUS. The diagnostic accuracy of the TLUS was evaluated using the results of EDF as the standard for comparison. RESULTS: A total of 42 women were included. Four sphincter defects were identified with both techniques, and EDF clearly showed if the defect was partial or total and additionally identified the pubovisceral muscle defect. There was substantial concordance regarding normal relaxation and anismus. Perfect concordance was found with rectocele and cystocele. The rectocele depth was measured with TLUS and quantified according to the EDF classification. Fair concordance was found for intussusception. There was no correlation between the displacement of the puborectal muscle at maximum straining on EDF with the displacement of the anorectal junction (ARJ), compared at rest with maximal straining on TLUS to determine perineal descent (PD). The mean ARJ displacement was similar in patients with normal and those with excessive PD on TLUS. CONCLUSIONS: Both modalities can be used as a method to assess pelvic floor dysfunction. The EDF using 3D anorectal and endovaginal approaches showed advantages in identification of the anal sphincters and pubodefects (partial or total). There was good correlation between the two techniques, and a TLUS rectocele classification based on size that corresponds to the established classification using EDF was established.

[Robot assisted Frykman-Goldberg procedure. Case report]. / Procedimiento de Frykman-Goldberg asistido por robot. Reporte de caso.

BACKGROUND: Rectal prolapse is defined as the protrusion of the rectal wall through the anal canal; with a prevalence of less than 0.5%. The most frequent symptoms include pain, incomplete defecation sensation with blood and mucus, fecal incontinence and/or constipation. The surgical approach can be perineal or abdominal with the tendency for minimal invasion. Robot-assisted procedures are a novel option that offer technique advantages over open or laparoscopic approaches. CASE REPORT: 67 year-old female, who presented with rectal prolapse, posterior to an episode of constipation, that required manual reduction, associated with transanal hemorrhage during defecation and occasional fecal incontinence. A RMI defecography was performed that reported complete rectal and uterine prolapse, and cystocele. A robotic assisted Frykman-Goldberg procedure wass performed. DISCUSSION: There are more than 100 surgical procedures for rectal prolapse treatment. We report the first robot assisted procedure in Mexico. Robotic assisted surgery has the same safety rate as laparoscopic surgery, with the advantages of better instrument mobility, no human hand tremor, better vision, and access to complicated and narrow areas. CONCLUSION: Robotic surgery as the surgical treatment is a feasible, safe and effective option, there is no difference in recurrence and function compared with laparoscopy. It facilitates the technique, improves nerve preservation and bleeding. Further clinical, prospective and randomized studies to compare the different minimal invasive approaches, their functional and long term results for this pathology are needed.

Correlation Between Echodefecography and 3-Dimensional Vaginal Ultrasonography in the Detection of Perineal Descent in Women With Constipation Symptoms.

BACKGROUND: Defecography is an established method of evaluating dynamic anorectal dysfunction, but conventional defecography does not allow for visualization of anatomic structures. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to describe the use of dynamic 3-dimensional endovaginal ultrasonography for evaluating perineal descent in comparison with echodefecography (3-dimensional anorectal ultrasonography) and to study the relationship between perineal descent and symptoms and anatomic/functional abnormalities of the pelvic floor. DESIGN: This was a prospective study. SETTING: The study was conducted at a large university tertiary care hospital. PATIENTS: Consecutive female patients were eligible if they had pelvic floor dysfunction, obstructed defecation symptoms, and a score >6 on the Cleveland Clinic Florida Constipation Scale. INTERVENTIONS: Each patient underwent both echodefecography and dynamic 3-dimensional endovaginal ultrasonography to evaluate posterior pelvic floor dysfunction. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Normal perineal descent was defined on echodefecography as puborectalis muscle displacement ≤2.5 cm; excessive perineal descent was defined as displacement >2.5 cm. RESULTS: Of 61 women, 29 (48%) had normal perineal descent; 32 (52%) had excessive perineal descent. Endovaginal ultrasonography identified 27 of the 29 patients in the normal group as having anorectal junction displacement ≤1 cm (mean = 0.6 cm; range, 0.1-1.0 cm) and a mean anorectal junction position of 0.6 cm (range, 0-2.3 cm) above the symphysis pubis during the Valsalva maneuver and correctly identified 30 of the 32 patients in the excessive perineal descent group. The κ statistic showed almost perfect agreement (κ = 0.86) between the 2 methods for categorization into the normal and excessive perineal descent groups. Perineal descent was not related to fecal or urinary incontinence or anatomic and functional factors (sphincter defects, pubovisceral muscle defects, levator hiatus area, grade II or III rectocele, intussusception, or anismus). LIMITATIONS: The study did not include a control group without symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: Three-dimensional endovaginal ultrasonography is a reliable technique for assessment of perineal descent. Using this technique, excessive perineal descent can be defined as displacement of the anorectal junction >1 cm and/or its position below the symphysis pubis on Valsalva maneuver.

Evaluación de la disinergia del piso pelviano mediante manometría anorrectal y ecografía dinámica (ecodefecografía): estudio comparativo de la utilidad de ambos métodos / Evaluation of pelvic floor dyssinergy using anorectal manometry and dynamic ultrasound (echodefecography): a comparative study of the usefulness of both methods

Objetivo: Evaluar el grado de concordancia entre la manometría anorrectal y la ecografía dinámica del piso pelviano (ecodefecografía) mediante la medición del índice kappa, en la detección de la contracción paradojal del haz puborrectal en pacientes que presentan dificultad evacuatoria (DE) ocasionada por pujo disinergico. Material y Método: Se efectuaron manometría anorrectal y ecodefecografía, en 89 pacientes (9 hombres y 80 mujeres) en un centro ambulatorio de coloproctología, a pacientes que presentaban síntomas de obstrucción defecatoria en el período comprendido entre mayo 2011 y mayo 2014. Se reportó la presencia de contracción paradojal del haz puborrectal durante el pujo en las manometrías. En la ecodefecografía se analizó el movimiento del músculo puborrectal, comparando el ángulo anorrectal. durante el reposo y pujo. En caso de constatarse una disminución del mismo durante el esfuerzo evacuatorio se interpreto como contracción paradojal del haz puborrectal. Resultados:. Se obtuvo un índice kappa de 0.87 (IC 95% 0,73-0,97), dando un muy buen grado de acuerdo entre los resultados de ambos estudios, con resultados estadísticamente significativos (p=0,05). Conclusión: La ecodefecografía es una herramienta útil que puede confirmar casos de disinergia demostrada por manometría, pero si bien ambos métodos presentan muy buen grado de acuerdo entre sí, ningún estudio puede reemplazar al otro ya que ambos métodos tienen sus resultados falsos positivos.

Objective: To assess the degree of agreement between anorectal manometry and dynamic pelvic floor ultrasound (echodefecography) by calculating kappa index in patients with symptoms of obstructed defecation. Material and Methods: Anorectal manometry and echodefecography were performed in patients with obstructed defecation symtpoms between May 2011 and May 2014. When the anorectal manometry was performed, the pressures during attempted defecation were recorded. Dyssinergic pattern was defined if a rise in pressures was noted. When the echodefecography was performed, the angle between the internal edges of the puborectalis with a vertical line according to the anal canal axis was calcultated at rest and during straining. Results: Anorectal manometry and echodefecography was performed in 89 patients with defecatory disturbances symptoms. Male:female 9male, the mean age of patients was 57 years old (range 25-78). The assessment of the degree of agreement or concordance between dynamic ultrasound and anorectal manometry yielded a kappa index of 0.87 (very good agreement) with statistically significant results (p=0.05). Conclusion: Ultrasonography may be used to assess patients with obstructed defecation, as it is able to detect the same anorrectal dysfuntions found by another pelvic floor studies. It is a minimally invasive, well tolerated method, and avoids exposure to radiation. Although both methods shows very good agreement with each other, they cannot replace them since both methods have false positive results.

Intususcepción recto rectal. Prevalencia en pacientes asintomáticos. / Rectum-rectal intussusception. Prevalence in asymptomatic patients

Introducción: La intususcepción rectal es un hallazgo frecuente en la defecografía tanto en individuos sintomáticos como en asintomáticos. Existe muy poca información con respecto al diagnóstico y tratamiento de esta anormalidad. También existe discrepancia entre las anormalidades anatómicas que pueden acompañar a esta patología, así como el grado de desarrollo de la intususcepción en pacientes asintomáticos. Objetivos: Describir la magnitud de la intususcepción en pacientes asintomáticos y comparar estos con los pacientes sin intususcepción. Métodos: Medimos, con un instrumento graduado en centímetros y milímetros, la pared rectal que sobresale en forma circunferencial hacia distal del borde de un anoscopio circular. Pacientes: Un grupo de 50 pacientes operados de prolapso anal/hemorroidal y 50 pacientes operados por otras patologías anales (fisura, condilomas, estenosis anal). El 49% eran mujeres. El promedio de edad fue de 49.7 años (±4.5 años). Ningún paciente tenía síntomas de obstrucción defecatoria. Resultados: En los pacientes del grupo con prolapso anal/hemorroides encontramos una intususcepción promedio de 1.59 cm comparada con 0.23 cm en los pacientes del grupo operado por otra patología. Estos resultados son estadísticamente significativos (p=0.003). Del grupo estudiado, 33 pacientes presentaban intususcepción- mayor a 1 cm, comparados con los sujetos controles (p=0.001). También fue significativa la diferencia entre aquellos que no tenían intususcepción y aquellos que sí la tenían aunque sea menores a 1 cm (p=0.004). No hubo diferencias significativas entre los dos grupos en cuanto a síntomas de obstrucción defecatoria o alguno que no tuviese relación con la patología por la cual iban a ser intervenidos quirúrgicamente (p=0.286). La longitud de la intususcepción fue de 0.5 a 2.5 cm y estuvo relacionada directamente a la patología subyacente por la cual se operaban los pacientes (fistulas, fisuras, condilomas, vs hemorroides, prolapso mucoso parcial y prolapso mucoso completo) (p = 0.003) e inversamente a los síntomas que presentaban (p < 0.001). Conclusiones: La intususcepción recto-rectal está presente, en diverso grado, en los pacientes con prolapso anal/hemorroidal, por lo que recomendaríamos realizar a todos estos pacientes una defecografía para evaluar el verdadero significado de esta patología. Se necesitan estudios a largo plazo para determinar la evolución real de esta entidad.

Abstract: Introduction: Rectal intussusception is frequently found in defecography both in symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals. There is scarce information about the diagnosis and treatment of this abnormality. There is also discrepancy on the anatomic abnormalities that this pathology may carry as well as the degree of development of intussusception in asymptomatic patients. Objectives:To describe the extent of intussusception in asymptomatic patients, and to compare them with patients without intussusception. Methods: Using an instrument marked in centimeters and millimeters, we measured the rectal wall that protrudes circumferentially towards the distal end of a circular anoscope edge. Patients: A group of 50 patients who had undergone anal / hemorrhoidal prolapse surgery and 50 patients who had undergone other anal surgeries related to pathologies such as anal fissures, condylomata, and stenosis. 49% of the patients were women. The average age was 48.7 years (±4.5 years).No patient presented symptoms of defecatoryobstruction. Results: Among the patients in the group with ana prolapse/hemorrhoids, an average intussusception of 1.59 cm was observed. Among the patients in the group who had undergone surgery for other pathologies, the average was 0.23 cm.These results are statistically significant (p=0.003). 33 patients in the group studied showed an intussusception larger than 1 cm, compared to control subjects (p=0.001).The difference among those without intussusception and those with it, even though it was less than 1 cm (p=0.004), was also significant.There were no significant differences among the groups with regard to the symptoms of defecatory obstruction or symptoms unrelated to the pathology that would cause their surgery (p=0.286). Intussusception length was 0.5 to 2.5 cm. It was directly related to the underlying pathology that required surgery in the patient, i.e. fistulae, fissures, condylomata vs. hemorrhoids, partial mucous prolapse and complete mucous prolapse (p=0.003) and inversely related to the symptoms shown (p< 0.001). Conclusions: Rectum-rectal intussusception is observed, in different degrees, in patients with anal/hemorrhoidal prolapse. Thus, we would recommend to perform a defecography to all these patients in order to assess the true meaning of this pathology. Long term studies will be necessary to determine the real evolution of this condition.

Use of dynamic 3-dimensional transvaginal and transrectal ultrasonography to assess posterior pelvic floor dysfunction related to obstructed defecation.

BACKGROUND: New ultrasound techniques may complement current diagnostic tools, and combined techniques may help to overcome the limitations of individual techniques for the diagnosis of anorectal dysfunction. A high degree of agreement has been demonstrated between echodefecography (dynamic 3-dimensional anorectal ultrasonography) and conventional defecography. OBJECTIVE: Our aim was to evaluate the ability of a combined approach consisting of dynamic 3-dimensional transvaginal and transrectal ultrasonography by using a 3-dimensional biplane endoprobe to assess posterior pelvic floor dysfunctions related to obstructed defecation syndrome in comparison with echodefecography. DESIGN AND SETTING: This was a prospective, observational cohort study conducted at a tertiary-care hospital. PATIENTS: Consecutive female patients with symptoms of obstructed defecation were eligible. INTERVENTION: Each patient underwent assessment of posterior pelvic floor dysfunctions with a combination of dynamic 3-dimensional transvaginal and transrectal ultrasonography by using a biplane transducer and with echodefecography. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Kappa (κ) was calculated as an index of agreement between the techniques. Diagnostic accuracy (sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values) of the combined technique in detection of posterior dysfunctions was assessed with echodefecography as the standard for comparison. RESULTS: A total of 33 women were evaluated. Substantial agreement was observed regarding normal relaxation and anismus. In detecting the absence or presence of rectocele, the 2 methods agreed in all cases. Near-perfect agreement was found for rectocele grade I, grade II, and grade III. Perfect agreement was found for entero/sigmoidocele, with near-perfect agreement for rectal intussusception. Using echodefecography as the standard for comparison, we found high diagnostic accuracy of transvaginal and transrectal ultrasonography in the detection of posterior dysfunctions. LIMITATIONS: This combined technique should be compared with other dynamic techniques and validated with conventional defecography. CONCLUSIONS: Dynamic 3-dimensional transvaginal and transrectal ultrasonography is a simple and fast ultrasound technique that shows strong agreement with echodefecography and may be used as an alternative method to assess patients with obstructed defecation syndrome.

Presentación de nueva técnica: ecografía tridimensional dinámica endorrectal (Ecodefecografía) en el estudio de pacientes con síndrome de obstrucción del tracto de salida. Técnica y resultados. Primera experiencia en la Argentina / Presentation of new technique dynamic three dimensional endorectal ultrasound (Echodefecography) in the patients study with obstructed defecation syndrome. Technique and results. First experience in Argentina

Objetivos: describir un reciente método para evaluar pacientes con síntomas de obstrucción del tracto de salida, y mostrar nuestra experiencia inicial y resultados obtenidos. Material y Métodos: se estudiaron, en el período comprendido entre mayo 2011 y mayo 2013, a pacientes con síntomas de dificultad evacuatoria utilizando la ecografía anorrectal dinámica según la técnica descripta. Los estudios fueron efectuados por 2 operadores entrenados en el método. Resultados: se realizaron 89 ecodefecografías en 88 pacientes, en un período de 24 meses. La ecodefecografía detectó rectocele en el 65% de los pacientes estudiados, seguido de intususcepción y anismo en el 54 y 45%, respectivamente. Conclusión: la ecodefecografía es un método útil para evaluar pacientes con síntomas de obstrucción del tracto de salida. Permite obtener los mismos resultados que la videodefecografía. Es un estudio mínimamente invasivo, evita la exposición a radiación y pone en evidencia todas las estructuras anatómicas involucradas en la evacuación.

Purpose: to describe a novel method to assess Obstructed Defecation Syndrome (ODS) and to show the results of our experience. Material and Methods: patients referred with symptoms of ODS between May 2011 and May 2013 were studied by anorrectal dynamic ultrasonography technique. We use the technique of echodefecography described by Murah-Regadas et al. The test was analyzed by two experienced investigators. Results: we performed 89 echodefecography in 88 patients in a period of 24 months. EDF revealed rectocele in 65%, intussusception in 54% and anismus in 45% of patients. Conclusion: echodefecography may be used to assess patients with obstructed defecation, as it is able to detect the same anorrectal dysfunctions found by defecography. It is a minimally invasive, well tolerated method, that avoids exposure to radiation and clearly shows all the anatomical structures involved in defecation.

MR imaging of the pelvic floor: defecography.

Defecography by magnetic resonance (MR) imaging makes it possible to view the multiple compartments of the pelvic floor at one examination, with high-resolution images at rest and dynamic images, providing accurate evaluation of the morphology and function of the anorectal and pelvic organs and muscles, involved in pelvic floor dynamics. MR imaging of the pelvic floor identifies the diseases affecting the evacuation mechanism, providing information essential for surgical planning and choice of treatment approach. This article focuses on the MR details of the pelvic floor anatomy and the most commonly observed anatomic and functional abnormalities.

Abdominal radiograph in the assessment of fecal impaction in children with functional constipation: comparing three scoring systems.

OBJECTIVES: To compare three radiological scores in the study of fecal impaction in children with constipation. To investigate whether these radiological scores are useful in the assessment of fecal disimpaction therapy and if they present a relation with total colonic transit time. METHODS: The Barr, Blethyn and Leech scores were measured by three observers, independently, in 123 abdominal radiographs. Interobserver agreement in the diagnosis of fecal impaction was calculated for the three scores. In 30 radiographs, the analysis of the scores was performed before and after fecal disimpaction. Total colonic transit time was calculated in 59 radiographs with the use of radiopaque markers. RESULTS: The agreement between pairs of observers was assessed by the kappa coefficient and was good for the Barr (0.56, 0.59 and 0.69) and Leech scores (0.53, 0.58 and 0.61). The Blethyn score presented lower kappa coefficients (0.26, 0.32 and 0.36). In the comparison of methods, Leech and Barr showed a good correlation. After fecal disimpaction, there was a statistically significant reduction (p < 0.001) of scores, most significantly with the Barr score. There was no relation between radiographic scores and colonic transit time. CONCLUSIONS: There is no relation between fecal impaction assessed by radiography of the abdomen and total colonic transit time. Plain radiographs may be a useful tool for the diagnosis of fecal impaction. The Barr score can be considered a good method of analysis, especially to assess the response to treatment of fecal impaction.

Radiografia simples de abdome no diagnóstico da impactação fecal em crianças com constipação intestinal: comparação entre três escores radiológicos / Abdominal radiograph in the assessment of fecal impaction in children with functional constipation: comparing three scoring systems

OBJETIVOS: Comparar três escores radiológicos na pesquisa de impactação fecal em crianças com constipação intestinal. Verificar, ainda, se estes escores radiológicos são úteis na avaliação da terapia de desimpactação fecal e se apresentam relação com o tempo de trânsito colônico total. MATERIAL E MÉTODOS: Os escores de Barr, Blethyn e Leech foram aferidos por três observadores, de forma independente, em 123 radiografias de abdome. A concordância interobservador no diagnóstico da impactação fecal foi calculada para os três escores. Em 30 radiografias, foi feita a análise dos escores antes e após a desimpactação fecal. O tempo de trânsito colônico total foi calculado em 59 radiografias com o emprego de marcadores radiopacos. RESULTADOS: A concordância entre os pares de observadores, avaliada pelo coeficiente de Kappa, foi boa para os escores de Barr (0,56, 0,59 e 0,69) e Leech (0,53, 0,58 e 0,61). O escore de Blethyn apresentou menores coeficientes de Kappa (0,26, 0,32 e 0,36). Na comparação dos métodos, Leech e Barr mostraram boa correlação. Após a desimpactação fecal, houve redução estatisticamente significante (p < 0,001) dos escores, mais expressiva com o escore de Barr. Não houve relação entre os escores radiológicos e o tempo de trânsito colônico. CONCLUSÕES: Não há relação entre impactação fecal avaliada pela radiografia de abdome e o tempo de trânsito colônico total. A radiografia simples pode ser um instrumento útil ao diagnóstico da impactação fecal. O escore de Barr pode ser considerado um bom método de análise, sobretudo para avaliação da resposta ao tratamento da impactação fecal.

OBJECTIVES: To compare three radiological scores in the study of fecal impaction in children with constipation. To investigate whether these radiological scores are useful in the assessment of fecal disimpaction therapy and if they present a relation with total colonic transit time. METHODS: The Barr, Blethyn and Leech scores were measured by three observers, independently, in 123 abdominal radiographs. Interobserver agreement in the diagnosis of fecal impaction was calculated for the three scores. In 30 radiographs, the analysis of the scores was performed before and after fecal disimpaction. Total colonic transit time was calculated in 59 radiographs with the use of radiopaque markers. RESULTS: The agreement between pairs of observers was assessed by the kappa coefficient and was good for the Barr (0.56, 0.59 and 0.69) and Leech scores (0.53, 0.58 and 0.61). The Blethyn score presented lower kappa coefficients (0.26, 0.32 and 0.36). In the comparison of methods, Leech and Barr showed a good correlation. After fecal disimpaction, there was a statistically significant reduction (p < 0.001) of scores, most significantly with the Barr score. There was no relation between radiographic scores and colonic transit time. CONCLUSIONS: There is no relation between fecal impaction assessed by radiography of the abdomen and total colonic transit time. Plain radiographs may be a useful tool for the diagnosis of fecal impaction. The Barr score can be considered a good method of analysis, especially to assess the response to treatment of fecal impaction.

The influence of age on posterior pelvic floor dysfunction in women with obstructed defecation syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Knowledge of risk factors is particularly useful to prevent or manage pelvic floor dysfunction but although a number of such factors have been proposed, results remain inconsistent. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of aging on the incidence of posterior pelvic floor disorders in women with obstructed defecation syndrome evaluated using echodefecography. METHODS: A total of 334 patients with obstructed defecation were evaluated using echodefecography in order to quantify posterior pelvic floor dysfunction (rectocele, intussusception, mucosal prolapse, paradoxical contraction or non-relaxation of the puborectalis muscle, and grade III enterocele/sigmoidocele). Patients were grouped according to the age (Group I = patients up to 50 years of age; Group II = patients over 50 years of age) to evaluate the isolated and associated incidence of dysfunctions. To evaluate the relationship between dysfunction and age-related changes, patients were also stratified into decades. RESULTS: Group I included 196 patients and Group II included 138. The incidence of significant rectocele, intussusception, rectocele associated with intussusception, rectocele associated with mucosal prolapse and 3 associated disorders was higher in Group II, whereas anismus was more prevalent in Group I. The incidence of significant rectocele, intussusception, mucosal prolapse and grade III enterocele/sigmoidocele was found to increase with age. Conversely, anismus decreased with age. CONCLUSIONS: Aging was shown to influence the incidence of posterior pelvic floor disorders (rectocele, intussusception, mucosa prolapse and enterocele/sigmoidocele), but not the incidence of anismus, in women with obstructed defecation syndrome.

Correlation between anorectocele with the anterior anal canal and anorectal junction anatomy using echodefecography.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the relationship between the pathogenesis of anorectocele and the anatomy of the anal canal and anorectal junction using echodefecography. METHODS: The study was conducted on a total of 100 women with obstructed defecation, mean age 46.6 years, who underwent echodefecography. Patients were classified based on rectocele status into group I, without rectocele (n = 32); group II, grade I rectocele (n = 11); group III, grade II (n = 27); and group IV, grade III (n = 30). We identified the layers of the anterior anorectal wall and measured anterior external sphincter length, posterior external sphincter and puborectalis length, gap between anterior external sphincter and anorectal junction, anorectal wall thickness in 3 locations: (1) proximal to anterior external anal sphincter; (2) anterior anorectal junction; (3) 1.0 cm proximal to anorectal junction. RESULTS: The anterior part of the external anal sphincter was significantly longer in group I (18.91 ± 0.38 mm) than in group III (16.94 ± 0.45 mm) (p < 0.05), and the length in group I was similar to that in group II (18.56 ± 0.44 mm) (p = 0.6223). The gap was significantly shorter in group I (21.24 ± 0.97 mm) than in group III (25.04 ± 0.82 mm) and group IV (23.82 ± 0.80 mm) (p < 0.05). The length of the anterior part of the external anal sphincter as a percentage of the length of the posterior external anal sphincter together with the puborectalis muscle was a mean of 57.39 ± 2.13% in group I, 56.01 ± 1.581% in group II, 47.77 ± 1.48% in group III, and 50.45 ± 1.61% in group IV, with a significantly higher percentage in group I than in groups III (p = 0.0126) and IV (p = 0.0007). No significant differences were identified between any of the groups regarding anorectal wall thickness at any of the 3 selected locations (p > 0.05). The muscularis propria layer of the rectal wall was not identified in 2 patients in group I (6.25%), 3 patients in group II (11.11%), and 3 patients in group III (10.00%), and 6 in group IV (8.82%), with no significant differences among groups. CONCLUSIONS: The pathogenesis of anorectocele may be associated with a shorter anterior part of the external anal sphincter and consequently a longer gap.

Cirugía de la constipación crónica severa clínicamente intratable / Surgery of clinically intractable chronic constipation

Introducción: La constipación es una enfermedad de alta prevalencia en nuestro medio. Aunque el tratamiento quirúrgico es la última opción para estos pacientes, sigue brindando una buena alternativa para esta patología. Buscamos las alteraciones orgánicas subyacentes. Material y métodos: Operamos 40 pacientes entre enero 2006 y diciembre 2009, con diagnóstico de constipación crónica severa clinicamente intratable. 8 eran hombres. El promedio de edad fue de 47.4 años. Comparamos los hallazgos anátomo-patológicos con pacientes no constipados. A todos los pacientes les realizamos tránsito colónico con marcadores, colon por enema y eventualmente defecografia. Resultados: Del total de 40 pacientes, 9 tuvieron diagnóstico de inercia colónica segmentaria, 7 de inercia colónica total y 24 pacientes con tránsito colónico normal. Realizamos 40 colectomías totales. No hubo mortalidad en la serie. No hubo dehiscencias anastomóticas. Todas las anastomosis fueron al recto. 4 pacientes habían tenido resecciones segmentarias previamente. Encontramos en la anatomía patológica de todos los pacientes alteraciones en la forma, estructura y número de las células ganglionares colónicas tanto en el plexo submucoso como en el muscular. Además encontramos otras alteraciones como edema de la submucosa y proliferación angiolipomatosa. Conclusiones: La cirugía de la constipación no solo brindó una terapéutica específica para esta patología, sino también nos brindó una oportunidad de empezar a conocer las alteraciones histológicas subyacentes a esta enfermedad.

Introduction: Constipation is a highly prevalent disease in our area. Although surgical treatment is the last option for these patients, it is still a good choice for this pathology. We want to examine the underlying structural changes. Material and method: From January 2006 to December 2009. 40 patients were operated. The diagnosis was severe chronic constipation, unable to be treated. 8 patients were male. Average age was 47.4 years old. Pathological findings were compared with no constipated patients. All the patients underwent colon transit with markers, barium enema and an eventual defecography. Results: From the total amount of 40 patients, 7 were diagnosed with segmental colonic inertia, 9 with total colonic inertia and 24 patients with normal colonic transit. 40 total colectomies were performed. Mortality was not present in this group. There were no anastomotic dehiscence. All anastomosis were in the superior rectum. 4 patients have had segmental resections before the total colectomy. In the pathological findings of all patients, changes in shape, number and structure of the colon ganglionic cells were observed, both in the submucosal and muscular plexus. Besides, other alterations such as submucosal edema and angiolipomatous proliferation were observed. Conclusions: Constipation surgery offered not only a specific therapy for this pathology, but also an opportunity to know the underlying changes of this disease.

Cirugía de la constipación crónica severa clínicamente intratable / Surgery of clinically intractable chronic constipation

Introducción: La constipación es una enfermedad de alta prevalencia en nuestro medio. Aunque el tratamiento quirúrgico es la última opción para estos pacientes, sigue brindando una buena alternativa para esta patología. Buscamos las alteraciones orgánicas subyacentes. Material y métodos: Operamos 40 pacientes entre enero 2006 y diciembre 2009, con diagnóstico de constipación crónica severa clinicamente intratable. 8 eran hombres. El promedio de edad fue de 47.4 años. Comparamos los hallazgos anátomo-patológicos con pacientes no constipados. A todos los pacientes les realizamos tránsito colónico con marcadores, colon por enema y eventualmente defecografia. Resultados: Del total de 40 pacientes, 9 tuvieron diagnóstico de inercia colónica segmentaria, 7 de inercia colónica total y 24 pacientes con tránsito colónico normal. Realizamos 40 colectomías totales. No hubo mortalidad en la serie. No hubo dehiscencias anastomóticas. Todas las anastomosis fueron al recto. 4 pacientes habían tenido resecciones segmentarias previamente. Encontramos en la anatomía patológica de todos los pacientes alteraciones en la forma, estructura y número de las células ganglionares colónicas tanto en el plexo submucoso como en el muscular. Además encontramos otras alteraciones como edema de la submucosa y proliferación angiolipomatosa. Conclusiones: La cirugía de la constipación no solo brindó una terapéutica específica para esta patología, sino también nos brindó una oportunidad de empezar a conocer las alteraciones histológicas subyacentes a esta enfermedad. (AU)

Introduction: Constipation is a highly prevalent disease in our area. Although surgical treatment is the last option for these patients, it is still a good choice for this pathology. We want to examine the underlying structural changes. Material and method: From January 2006 to December 2009. 40 patients were operated. The diagnosis was severe chronic constipation, unable to be treated. 8 patients were male. Average age was 47.4 years old. Pathological findings were compared with no constipated patients. All the patients underwent colon transit with markers, barium enema and an eventual defecography. Results: From the total amount of 40 patients, 7 were diagnosed with segmental colonic inertia, 9 with total colonic inertia and 24 patients with normal colonic transit. 40 total colectomies were performed. Mortality was not present in this group. There were no anastomotic dehiscence. All anastomosis were in the superior rectum. 4 patients have had segmental resections before the total colectomy. In the pathological findings of all patients, changes in shape, number and structure of the colon ganglionic cells were observed, both in the submucosal and muscular plexus. Besides, other alterations such as submucosal edema and angiolipomatous proliferation were observed. Conclusions: Constipation surgery offered not only a specific therapy for this pathology, but also an opportunity to know the underlying changes of this disease. (AU)

A novel three-dimensional dynamic anorectal ultrasonography technique for the assessment of perineal descent, compared with defaecography.

AIM: The purpose of the study was to describe a novel three-dimensional dynamic anorectal ultrasonography technique (dynamic 3-DAUS) for assessment of perineal descent (PD) and establishment of normal range values, comparing it with defaecography. Secondarily, the study compares the ability of the two techniques to identify various pelvic floor dysfunctions. METHOD: A prospective study was undertaken in 29 women (mean age 43 years) with obstructed defecation disorder. All patients underwent defaecography and dynamic 3-DAUS and the results were compared. Lee kappa coefficients (K) were used. RESULTS: On defaecography, PD > 3 cm was detected in 12 patients. On dynamic 3-DAUS, 10 of these patients had PD > 2.5 cm. Seventeen had normal PD on defaecography and PD ≤ 2.5 cm on dynamic 3-DAUS (K 0.85). Normal relaxation was observed in 10 patients and anismus in 14 with both techniques (K 0.65). Both techniques identified five patients without rectocele, two with grade I rectocele (K 0.89 and 1.00, respectively) and 10 with grade II and nine with grade III (K 0.72 and 0.77, respectively). Rectal intussusception was identified in six patients on defaecography. These were confirmed on dynamic 3-DAUS in addition to the identification of another seven cases indicating moderate agreement (K 0.46). Enterocele/sigmoidocele grade III was identified in one patient with both techniques, indicating substantial agreement (K 0.65). CONCLUSION: Dynamic 3-DAUS was shown to be a reliable technique for the assessment of PD and pelvic floor dysfunctions, identifying all disorders and confirming findings from defaecography.

Influence of age, mode of delivery and parity on the prevalence of posterior pelvic floor dysfunctions.

CONTEXT: The correlation between vaginal delivery, age and pelvic floor dysfunctions involving obstructed defecation is still a matter of controversy. OBJECTIVES: To determine the influence of age, mode of delivery and parity on the prevalence of posterior pelvic floor dysfunctions in women with obstructed defecation syndrome. METHODS: Four hundred sixty-nine females with obstructed defecation syndrome were retrospectively evaluated using dynamic 3D ultrasonography to quantify posterior pelvic floor dysfunctions (rectocele grade II or III, rectal intussusception, paradoxical contraction/non-relaxation of the puborectalis and entero/ sigmoidocele grade III). In addition, sphincter damage was evaluated. Patients were grouped according to age (≤50y x >50y) and stratified by mode of delivery and parity: group I (≤50y): 218 patients, 75 nulliparous, 64 vaginal delivery and 79 only cesarean section and group II (>50y): 251 patients, 60 nulliparous, 148 vaginal delivery and 43 only caesarean section. Additionally, patients were stratified by number of vaginal deliveries: 0 - nulliparous (n = 135), 1 - vaginal (n = 46), >1 - vaginal (n = 166). RESULTS: Rectocele grade II or III, intussusception, rectocele + intussusception and sphincter damage were more prevalent in Group II (P = 0.0432; P = 0.0028; P = 0.0178; P = 0.0001). The stratified groups (nulliparous, vaginal delivery and cesarean) did not differ significantly with regard to rectocele, intussusception or anismus in each age group. Entero/sigmoidocele was more prevalent in the vaginal group <50y and in the nulliparous and vaginal groups >50y. No correlation was found between rectocele and the number of vaginal deliveries. CONCLUSION: Higher age (>50 years) was shown to influence the prevalence of significant rectocele, intussusception and sphincter damage in women. However, delivery mode and parity were not correlated with the prevalence of rectocele, intussusception and anismus in women with obstructed defecation.

Influence of age, mode of delivery and parity on the prevalence of posterior pelvic floor dysfunctions / Influência da idade, tipo de parto e paridade na prevalência das disfunções do assoalho pélvico no compartimento posterior

CONTEXT: The correlation between vaginal delivery, age and pelvic floor dysfunctions involving obstructed defecation is still a matter of controversy. OBJECTIVES: To determine the influence of age, mode of delivery and parity on the prevalence of posterior pelvic floor dysfunctions in women with obstructed defecation syndrome. METHODS: Four hundred sixty-nine females with obstructed defecation syndrome were retrospectively evaluated using dynamic 3D ultrasonography to quantify posterior pelvic floor dysfunctions (rectocele grade II or III, rectal intussusception, paradoxical contraction/non-relaxation of the puborectalis and entero/ sigmoidocele grade III). In addition, sphincter damage was evaluated. Patients were grouped according to age (<50y x >50y) and stratified by mode of delivery and parity: group I (<50y): 218 patients, 75 nulliparous, 64 vaginal delivery and 79 only cesarean section and group II (>50y): 251 patients, 60 nulliparous, 148 vaginal delivery and 43 only caesarean section. Additionally, patients were stratified by number of vaginal deliveries: 0 - nulliparous (n = 135), 1 - vaginal (n = 46), >1 - vaginal (n = 166). RESULTS: Rectocele grade II or III, intussusception, rectocele + intussusception and sphincter damage were more prevalent in Group II (P = 0.0432; P = 0.0028; P = 0.0178; P = 0.0001). The stratified groups (nulliparous, vaginal delivery and cesarean) did not differ significantly with regard to rectocele, intussusception or anismus in each age group. Entero/sigmoidocele was more prevalent in the vaginal group <50y and in the nulliparous and vaginal groups >50y. No correlation was found between rectocele and the number of vaginal deliveries. CONCLUSION: Higher age (>50 years) was shown to influence the prevalence of significant rectocele, intussusception and sphincter damage in women. However, delivery mode and parity were not correlated with the prevalence of rectocele, intussusception and anismus in women with obstructed defecation.

CONTEXTO: A correlação entre parto vaginal, idade e disfunções do assoalho pélvico em pacientes com evacuação obstruída permanece ainda controverso. OBJETIVO: Determinar a influência da idade, tipo de parto e paridade na prevalência de disfunções do assoalho pélvico posterior em mulheres com evacuação obstruída. MÉTODOS: Quatrocentas e sessenta e nove mulheres com evacuação obstruída foram avaliadas, retrospectivamente, utilizando ultrassonografia tridimensional dinâmica para quantificar disfunções do assoalho pélvico posterior (retocele grau II ou III, intussuscepção retal, anismus e entero/sigmoidocele grau III) e presença de lesão esfincteriana. As pacientes foram agrupadas de acordo com a idade (<50 anos e >50 anos) e estratificadas por tipo de parto e paridade em grupo I (<50 anos): incluindo 218 pacientes (75 nulíparas, 64 com partos vaginais e 79 apenas com operações cesarianas) e grupo II (>50 anos): incluindo 251 pacientes (60 nulíparas, 148 com partos vaginais e 43 apenas com cesarianas). Além disso, as pacientes foram estratificadas por número de partos vaginais em nulíparas (n = 135), com um parto vaginal (n = 46) e com mais de um parto vaginal (n = 166). RESULTADOS: Retocele, intussuscepção, associação de intussuscepção e retocele e lesão esfinceriana foram mais prevalentes no grupo II (P = 0,0432, P = 0,0028, P = 0,0178, P = 0,0001). Não houve diferença significante na prevalência de retocele, intussuscepção ou anismus em relação ao tipo de parto e paridade, em cada faixa etária. Êntero/sigmoidocele foi mais prevalente em pacientes com parto vaginal no grupo I e em nulíparas e com parto vaginal no grupo II. Nenhuma correlação foi encontrada entre prevalência de retocele e número de partos vaginais. CONCLUSÃO: A idade superior a 50 anos está associada a maior prevalência de retocele, intussuscepção e lesão esfincteriana, no entanto, a paridade e o tipo de parto não se correlacionam com a prevalência de intussuscepção, retocele e anismus em mulheres com evacuação obstruída.