Plain Abdominal Radiograph as an Evaluation Method of Bowel Dysfunction in Patients With Spinal Cord Injury

Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine, 2013 · DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5535/arm.2013.37.4.547 · Published: August 1, 2013

Spinal Cord Injury Medical Imaging Gastroenterology

Simple Explanation

Bowel dysfunction is a common complication after spinal cord injury (SCI), often manifesting as constipation. The importance of gastrointestinal problems is sometimes ignored despite its high incidence and impact on patients' quality of life. The study aimed to evaluate the usefulness of plain abdominal radiographs in determining the degree of total and segmental stool retention. This helps assess bowel patterns and colon transit time. Plain abdominal radiography is a simple, inexpensive, and less radioactive method. It can help evaluate the degree and distribution of feces in the colon, and identify the presence of megacolon.

Study Duration

7 Years

Participants

44 patients with SCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
There were statistically significant correlations between the total CTT and constipation score, and Starreveld and Leech scores.
2
Significant correlations were observed between each segmental CTT and the segmental stool retention score.
3
Megacolon was observed in 14 patients (31.8%) and megarectum was observed in 11 patients (25%).

Research Summary

This study aimed to evaluate the usefulness of plain abdominal radiography for assessing bowel dysfunction in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI). The study found significant correlations between colon transit time (CTT), constipation scores, and stool retention scores measured by plain abdominal radiography. The conclusion is that plain abdominal radiography is a convenient and simple method for evaluating bowel dysfunction in SCI patients, aiding in bowel management and treatment planning.

Practical Implications

Clinical Usefulness

Plain abdominal radiography offers a simple and less time-consuming method for evaluating bowel dysfunction in SCI patients, especially in outpatient settings.

Treatment Guidance

The findings can guide the selection of appropriate bowel management strategies based on the location and degree of stool retention observed in radiographs.

Objective Assessment

The study suggests plain abdominal radiography provides objective information on colonic motility, complementing subjective clinical assessments.

Study Limitations

1
The study did not consider dietary patterns or medications affecting bowel dysfunction.
2
The study lacked a control group for comparison.
3
There was no statistical correlation between the bowel pattern identified by the constipation score and plain abdominal radiography.

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