How common is colonic elongation in children with slow-transit constipation or anorectal retention?

Abstract

PURPOSE: Colonic elongation is reported as a possible cause for slow colonic transit, as it is observed in patients with slow-transit constipation (STC). This study aimed to determine the frequency of colonic elongation in children with STC or anorectal retention using radioimaging. We hypothesized that transverse colon elongation may occur in patients with STC, whereas sigmoid colon elongates in patients with anorectal retention. METHODS: Nuclear transit scintigraphy performed for chronic constipation (1999-2011) was analyzed qualitatively for elongated transverse colon or sigmoid colon. Three major colonic transit patterns were identified: slow transit in the proximal colon (STC), normal p..