Study of the Prevalence of Defecatory Disorders in Patients with Quiescent Ulcerative Colitis Using High-Resolution Anorectal Manometry.

Abstract

Background: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is characterized by recurring episodes of inflammation limited to the mucosal layer of the colon. This work aimed to assess the prevalence of defecatory disorders in patients with quiescent UC using high-resolution anorectal manometry.

Methods: This study included 50 UC patients who have documented UC remission or in mild activity (clinically and endoscopically using Mayo score) for the last 6 months, and had persistent symptoms of defecatory disorder (Constipation, faecal incontinence, urgency, rectal pain, and/or sense of incomplete evacuation). All patients were subjected to detailed history taking, systemic physical examination, laboratory investigations, colonoscopy, and high-resolution anorectal manometry. The patient or their relatives provided written consent that was informed. The study was conducted with the approval of the Ethical Committee.

Results: There were statistically significant differences regarding the relation between fecal incontinence and with duration of the disease (P= 0.008), while no significant differences were observed with the UC extension or the treatment used. Regarding constipation, urgency, incomplete evacuation, and proctalgia defecatory disorders; it had no statistical significance with the duration of the disease, the UC extension, and the treatment used.

Conclusion: UC patients still experience defecatory disorders even at the quiescent stage, and we recommend their evaluation by anorectal manometry.