Effect of rectal dilation in fecal incontinence with low rectal compliance. Report of a case.
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.
Alstrup
N I
NI
Department of Surgical Gastroenterology D, Herlev Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
Rasmussen
O O
OO
Christiansen
J
J
D000368:Aged; D002404:Catheterization; D005242:Fecal Incontinence / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012007:Rectum / Q000503:physiopathology*