Idiopathic megarectum complicating pregnancy: report of a case.

Abstract

Pregnancy often exacerbates constipation in young women with chronic constipation syndromes. The presence of the fetus presents a challenge in both the diagnosis and treatment of these syndromes. This study was conducted to report a rare case of idiopathic megarectum complicating a pregnancy. An aggressive polyethylene glycol (PEG) regimen allowed the patient to carry the child to term and to have a normal vaginal delivery. Successful proctocolectomy was performed with coloanal anastomosis 3 months postpartum. The patient has been free of constipation for 18 months without the need for cathartics or laxatives. All efforts to avoid operative intervention should be made in constipated patients during pregnancy. This principle holds true even in the setting of dilated large bowel. Idiopathic megarectum and the management of constipation in pregnancy are discussed.

• Authors: E M Grossmann, D L Kaminski, E Amon, W E Longo
• Journal: The American journal of gastroenterology (Am J Gastroenterol) Vol. 95 Issue 10 Pg. 2969-72 (Oct 2000) ISSN: 0002-9270 [Print] United States
• PMID: 11051378 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Contrast Media
• Barium Sulfate

Topics

• Adult
• Barium Sulfate
• Contrast Media
• Fecal Impaction (diagnostic imaging)
• Female
• Humans
• Megacolon (diagnostic imaging)
• Pregnancy
• Pregnancy Complications (diagnostic imaging)
• Radiography
• Rectal Diseases (diagnostic imaging)
• Recurrence