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Gastroenterology119 papers

Impaction of colon

Last edited: 4/15/2026

Overview

Impaction of the colon refers to the obstruction of the colon by fecal matter or other materials, often requiring endoscopic or surgical intervention for resolution 2.

Diagnosis

  • Clinical presentation includes abdominal pain, distension, and signs of bowel obstruction 2.
  • Imaging studies such as abdominal X-rays (with contrast if necessary) can help identify the presence of impaction 2.
  • Endoscopic evaluation is definitive for diagnosis and initial management 2.
  • Management

  • Initial management often involves endoscopic removal using specialized techniques and tools 2.
  • Adjunctive treatments may include bowel rest and intravenous hydration 2.
  • In cases where endoscopic removal fails, surgical intervention might be necessary 2.
  • Special Populations

  • No specific evidence provided regarding pregnancy, pediatrics, elderly, or comorbidities in the given abstracts 12.
  • Key Recommendations

  • Utilize endoscopic techniques for the primary management of colonic impaction due to their effectiveness and minimally invasive nature (Evidence: Moderate) 2.
  • Ensure adequate supportive care including bowel rest and intravenous hydration alongside endoscopic interventions (Evidence: Moderate) 2.
  • Consider surgical intervention when endoscopic removal is unsuccessful or contraindicated (Evidence: Expert opinion) 2.
  • References

    1 Chou DW, Staltari G, Mullen M, Chang J, Durr M. Otolaryngology Resident Wellness, Training, and Education in the Early Phase of the COVID-19 Pandemic. The Annals of otology, rhinology, and laryngology 2021. link 2 Grover SC, Scaffidi MA, Khan R, Garg A, Al-Mazroui A, Alomani T et al.. Progressive learning in endoscopy simulation training improves clinical performance: a blinded randomized trial. Gastrointestinal endoscopy 2017. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Otolaryngology Resident Wellness, Training, and Education in the Early Phase of the COVID-19 Pandemic.Chou DW, Staltari G, Mullen M, Chang J, Durr M The Annals of otology, rhinology, and laryngology (2021)
    2. [2]
      Progressive learning in endoscopy simulation training improves clinical performance: a blinded randomized trial.Grover SC, Scaffidi MA, Khan R, Garg A, Al-Mazroui A, Alomani T et al. Gastrointestinal endoscopy (2017)

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