Management of Stercoral Colitis

Diagnosis and Initial Assessment

• The American College of Radiology recommends confirming diagnosis through CT imaging, which is the preferred diagnostic method 1

Treatment Strategy

• Manual disimpaction is preferred as the first-line approach for fecal disimpaction, according to Praxis Medical Insights 2
• The use of oral laxatives, particularly PEG solutions, to soften stool is recommended for fecal disimpaction 2
• Digital fragmentation and extraction of stool after appropriate analgesia/anxiolysis is an alternative approach to enemas 2
• Administration of oral lavage with PEG solutions containing electrolytes to soften remaining stool is recommended 2
• Implementation of a maintenance bowel regimen immediately after disimpaction to prevent recurrence is advised 2

High-Risk Populations

• Elderly patients are considered a high-risk population for stercoral colitis, according to Praxis Medical Insights 2