Transabdominal Ultrasound Measurement of the Diameter of Rectal Ampulla as a Less Invasive Modality for Digital Rectal Examination in Children with Functional Constipation

Background: Constipation is one of the most common complaints in children. Guidelines on functional constipation recommend digital rectal examination (DRE) when suspected. However, diagnosis megarectum by ultrasonography would differentiate children with from those dysfunctional defecation. Objectives: In this research, we evaluated utilization to measure diameter ampulla for constipation. Methods: study, 94 patients < 14 years old diagnosed were included. Patients examined both DRE and before after a conventional stool softener treatment. Results: The was significantly wider large mass than normal exams. There significant relationship between fecal incontinence pre-treatment DRA. By increasing severity incontinence, average DRA increased significantly. Additionally, there statistical difference patient’s Finally, adjusted model showed that risk abnormal 3.1 times larger three four symptoms two statistically significant. Conclusions: Ultrasonography can be suitable replacement DRE; however, further investigations are required.