title: Effect of rectal dilation in fecal incontinence with low rectal compliance. Report of a case.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  This study was undertaken to determine the effect of rectal dilation in a patient with urge-type fecal incontinence and frequent bowel movements associated with low rectal compliance and capacity.
  
  
  METHODS
  Daily rectal balloon dilation was performed for a period of four weeks.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The patient regained complete fecal continence with one to two daily bowel movements. Rectal compliance, capacity, and cross-sectional area increased by 37 to 136 percent. Nine months later the patient was still without symptoms.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Rectal balloon dilation may be a therapeutic alternative in selected patients.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgical Gastroenterology D, Herlev Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
authors.forename: N I
authors.initials: NI
authors.lastname: Alstrup
authors.forename: O O
authors.initials: OO
authors.lastname: Rasmussen
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Christiansen
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D002404:Catheterization; D005242:Fecal Incontinence / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012007:Rectum / Q000503:physiopathology*