What is defecography?
Defecography, also known as cinedefecography or evacuatory proctography, is a radiological examination to confirm suspected pathologies of the pelvic floor, rectum or anus, i.e. all those anatomical abnormalities that lead to defecation problems. This is done with a rectal ampoule into which a contrast liquid is inserted, visible during the X-ray.
What does it consist of?
The patient is placed in a specific seat sensitive to X-rays and provided with a container. During the test, the specialist evaluates by means of an X-ray radiograph the procedure of expulsion from the rectum of a rectal ampoule containing contrast liquid. The use of this tool is useful as it simulates the natural process of stool excretion. It is essential that the patient listens to the doctor’s instructions when asked to relax or contract the muscles in the area.
Thanks to the X-rays the specialist will be able to identify any anatomical problems such as mucosal prolapse, descending perineum or rectocele. In the days following the test, the color of the stool may be affected by the release of the contrast liquid. Defecography is not a painful or dangerous examination, but there are rare cases in which some complications may occur, such as local inflammation and intestinal perforations, always caused by pre-existing pathologies, such as Crohn’s disease or rectocolitis.
Defecography is performed to observe the origin of defecation problems such as constipation or incontinence.
Why is it performed?
Defecography is performed in cases where there are pathologies associated with abnormal defecation. These include: chronic constipation, incontinence, prolapse of the rectum or surrounding areas or sensation of incomplete evacuation. The examination test allows the exact anatomical origin of the disorder to be determined.
Preparation for defecography
Preparation for the test involves the use of an enema to cleanse the rectum in the hours prior to the examination. In this way, the area can be accurately monitored and any problems can be identified. In addition, it is not necessary to interrupt any drug treatment in order to carry out this control. In many cases a radiological examination in a lying position is also performed prior to the actual examination to assess the condition before and after the test.
Anyone can undergo the test, except pregnant women, for whom it is not appropriate due to the ionizing radiation released by the contrast liquid during the process.
What does the test feel like?
The defecographic examination is not painful, although it may give rise to slight discomfort. Significance of abnormal results If performed correctly, the examination can identify anatomical problems underlying problems during defecation. Possible problems include: insufficient anorectal angle, slow opening of the anal canal, or alterations in the wall of the rectum.