Abstract
Chronic constipation is a common gastrointestinal disorder in older adults, and it is very important to manage chronic constipation. However, evaluating these subjective symptoms is extremely difficult in cases where patients are unable to express their symptoms because of a cognitive or physical impairment. Hence, it is necessary to observe the patient’s colonic faecal retention using objective methods. Ultrasonography observation for colonic faecal retention is useful for diagnosing constipation and evaluating the effectiveness of treatment. Since there was no standard protocol for interpreting rectal ultrasonography findings, we developed an observation protocol through an expert consensus. We convened a group of experts in the diagnosis and evaluation of chronic constipation and ultrasonography to discuss and review the current literature on this matter. Together, they composed a succinct, evidence-based observation protocol for rectal faecal retention using ultrasonography. We created an observation protocol to enhance the quality and accuracy of diagnosis of chronic constipation, especially rectal constipation. This consensus statement is intended to serve as a guide for physicians, laboratory technicians and nurses who do not specialise in ultrasound or the diagnosis of chronic constipation.
Highlights
Chronic constipation is a common gastrointestinal disorder in older adults
Chronic constipation occurs in 16% of adults, with higher rates in older patients [1]
Our aim was to create an observation protocol to enhance the quality and accuracy of diagnoses of chronic constipation, especially rectal constipation. This consensus statement is intended to serve as a guide for physicians, laboratory technicians and nurses who do not specialise in US or the diagnosis of chronic constipation
Summary
Chronic constipation is a common gastrointestinal disorder in older adults. Chronic constipation occurs in 16% of adults, with higher rates in older patients [1]. About onethird of adults aged 60 years or older report at least occasional constipation [1], and the prevalence is 50% or more in nursing home residents [2]. Chronic constipation is more commonly observed in women and those with lower socioeconomic status [3,4]. Constipated patients have an increased risk of cardiovascular events, possibly due in part to cardiovascular stress caused by anger during defaecation. Epidemiological studies in Japan have reported a significant increase in cardiovascular events, as the frequency of defaecation decreases [6]. The management of chronic constipation is very important
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