Defecating proctography: A pictorial essay

Abstract

Objectives: To provide an illustrative description of the technique and spectrum of findings in defecating proctography.

Key findings: Important findings on defecating proctography include rectocoele, enterocoele, sigmoidocoele, cystocoele, intussusception, rectal prolapse, descending perineum, incomplete emptying, anismus, and faecal incontinence. This review article illustrates these key findings with examples.

Conclusion: Defecating proctography is a well-established and cost-effective method of assessing disordered defecation. In conjunction with clinical information and other diagnostic tests, findings on defecating proctography can guide appropriate multidisciplinary management and may lead to improvement in embarrassing and debilitating symptoms in many patients.

Implications for practice: This review article provides a suggested technique and covers the spectrum of findings on defecating proctography.

Keywords: Defecography; Fluoroscopy; Pelvic floor; Rectum.