Treatment of coprostasis (fecal impaction)

Intestinal coprostasis is a condition in which fecal masses remain in the colon or rectum for a prolonged period, gradually become compacted and disrupt normal bowel movements. It most often develops as a complication of prolonged constipation, when the intestine can no longer empty completely.

As a result of prolonged retention, the stool loses water, becomes hard, and a fecal impaction may form, preventing the normal passage of intestinal contents. The longer this condition persists, the more difficult it is to eliminate the problem without medical assistance.

Coprostasis most often occurs as a complication of prolonged constipation, when the intestine regularly fails to empty completely. Due to prolonged stool retention, fecal masses accumulate and gradually become compacted, which significantly complicates their elimination. The risk of developing this condition also increases with chronic colostasis, which is accompanied by a prolonged slowing of the passage of contents through the colon.

The development of coprostasis may be promoted by:

• prolonged or frequently recurring constipation;
• insufficient consumption of fluids and foods rich in dietary fiber (vegetables, fruits, whole-grain cereals);
• a sedentary lifestyle or prolonged bed rest;
• diseases of the nervous system that affect intestinal motility;
• the use of certain medications, particularly opioid painkillers, iron supplements and certain antidepressants;
• advanced age, when the natural motility of the intestine slows down.

The doctors at “Oxford Medical” recommend not postponing constipation treatment, especially if the problem recurs regularly. Eliminating the causes of impaired bowel movements helps reduce the risk of developing coprostasis and its complications.

Sometimes, during or after defecation, blood in the stool may appear. Most often, this is associated with injury to the mucous membrane or anal canal caused by hard fecal masses. Regardless of the amount of blood, such a symptom requires a doctor’s consultation, as it may also indicate other diseases of the digestive system.

The diagnosis of coprostasis begins with an appointment with a proctologist. The doctor clarifies the complaints, the duration of stool retention, dietary habits, previous illnesses and which medications the patient is taking. During the examination, the doctor performs a digital rectal examination, which makes it possible to detect fecal impaction in the lower sections of the rectum or suspect other diseases.

If necessary, to clarify the diagnosis and determine the cause of impaired bowel movements, the doctor may prescribe:

• laboratory blood and urine tests;
• ultrasound of the abdominal organs — to assess the condition of the digestive organs and rule out other causes of the symptoms;
• irrigoscopy — an X-ray examination of the colon with a contrast agent, which helps assess its shape and patency and detect possible disorders;
• colonoscopy — an endoscopic examination of the colon that may be recommended after coprostasis has been eliminated if it is necessary to determine the cause of its development or rule out other diseases.

A comprehensive examination makes it possible not only to confirm coprostasis but also to determine the cause of its occurrence, which is an important condition for effective treatment.

The treatment of coprostasis is aimed primarily at safely eliminating the accumulation of dense fecal masses and restoring normal bowel movements. The choice of method depends on the location of the fecal impaction, the duration of symptoms, the patient’s age and the presence of concomitant diseases. According to the US National Library of Medicine, the treatment approach is determined individually for each patient.

Depending on the clinical situation, the following may be used:

• laxatives to soften and remove fecal masses;
• therapeutic enemas;
• endoscopic removal of fecal stones if conservative methods have not produced a result;
• surgical treatment — in the event of intestinal obstruction, intestinal perforation or other severe complications.

After coprostasis has been eliminated, the doctor determines the cause of its occurrence and, if necessary, prescribes further treatment to reduce the risk of this condition recurring.

The doctors at “Oxford Medical” recommend not delaying seeking medical care if stool retention is accompanied by severe abdominal pain, vomiting or a significant deterioration in well-being. The earlier treatment is started, the higher the likelihood of eliminating the problem without complications developing.

If fecal impactions in the intestine remain untreated for a prolonged period, the compacted fecal masses continue to press on the intestinal wall, disrupting its blood supply and normal functioning. According to the MSD Manual Professional Edition, prolonged retention of fecal masses may lead to the development of serious complications, so a visit to the doctor should not be postponed.

The most likely complications are:

• intestinal obstruction;
• the formation of ulcers in the intestinal mucosa;
• bleeding due to damage to the mucous membrane;
• perforation (rupture) of the intestinal wall;
• inflammation of the peritoneum (peritonitis) in the event of intestinal perforation.

The risk of developing complications increases in older people, patients with neurological diseases, limited mobility and chronic constipation.

The doctors at “Oxford Medical” warn that in the event of severe abdominal pain, vomiting, fever or a prolonged absence of bowel movements, it is necessary to seek medical assistance as soon as possible.

The prevention of coprostasis is aimed at maintaining normal bowel function and eliminating factors that may lead to prolonged stool retention. Particular attention should be paid to preventive measures by people who frequently suffer from constipation, have limited mobility or diseases that affect intestinal motility.

For prevention, it is recommended to:

• follow a balanced diet with a sufficient amount of vegetables, fruits, whole-grain products and other sources of dietary fiber;
• consume a sufficient amount of fluids daily in the absence of contraindications;
• maintain regular physical activity;
• not suppress the urge to defecate;
• treat constipation and other diseases that may impair bowel function in a timely manner.

The doctors at “Oxford Medical” recommend consulting a proctologist if constipation recurs regularly or lasts for several consecutive days. Timely examination helps determine the cause of impaired bowel movements and reduce the risk of developing coprostasis.

The cost of coprostasis treatment depends on the scope of the necessary diagnostics and the selected method of removing fecal masses. You can review the prices for doctors’ consultations here in advance.

To make an appointment with a proctologist, use the online appointment form or contact the “Oxford Medical” contact center. After the examination, the doctor will explain the cause of the disorder, select the optimal treatment approach, answer your questions and provide guidance regarding the cost of the necessary medical services.

The information is for informational purposes and does not replace a doctor’s consultation.

Sources:

• US National Library of Medicine
• American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons
• PubMed