Restorative proctocolectomy for idiopathic megarectum: postoperative recovery of hypotonic anal sphincters. Report of two cases.

Abstract

Restorative proctocolectomy has been advocated in the treatment of idiopathic megacolon, provided there is normal sphincter function. We report two patients undergoing this procedure, despite abnormal sphincter function. Anorectal manometry and detailed symptom review were performed both preoperatively and at various stages postoperatively in two young patients with idiopathic megarectum. Both patients had progressive sphincter recovery postoperatively, shown both manometrically and with symptomatic review. Low preoperative sphincter pressures in young patients with idiopathic megarectum may not preclude successful outcome after restorative proctocolectomy.