Massive megarectum secondary to constipation in institutionalized patient

Abstract

Chronic constipation is a common cause of morbidity in the elderly and institutionalized population. It can be associated with significantmorbidity and socioeconomical burden. Chronic resistance constipation can rarely be associated with megarectum. Herein, we present the case of a patient with physical and mental disability that presented with refractory constipation associated with extreme stool burden and a massive megarectum.We discuss chronic constipation in the elderly population, its etiologies and diagnostic work-up including surgical options. The management of chronic constipation with megarectum should be on a case-by-case basis.