Changes

Abdominal radiographs reveal a colon filled with faecal material. Radiographs are not normally needed to make a diagnosis of colonic impaction as it can usually be identified on clinical exam, however in certain cases it can identify the cause. A fractured pelvis, dislocated hip, enlarged prostate and colonic or rectal mases can be found on radiographs.  

Abdominal radiographs reveal a colon filled with faecal material. Radiographs are not normally needed to make a diagnosis of colonic impaction as it can usually be identified on clinical exam, however in certain cases it can identify the cause. A fractured pelvis, dislocated hip, enlarged prostate and colonic or rectal mases can be found on radiographs.  

==Endoscopy==

===Endoscopy===

Colonoscopy will identify a colonic or rectal mass or stricture and facilitates obtaining biopsy specimens.

Colonoscopy will identify a colonic or rectal mass or stricture and facilitates obtaining biopsy specimens.

    

    

Dehydrated patients should receive IV fluid therapy, with correction of any concurrent electrolyte and acid-base abnormalities.

Dehydrated patients should receive IV fluid therapy, with correction of any concurrent electrolyte and acid-base abnormalities.

A warm water enema can be used to soften and allow the impaction to pass. Laxatives such as Emollient laxatives (docusate sodium), Stimulant laxatives (bisacodyl), saline laxatives and disaccharide laxatives (lactulose) are also beneficial.

A warm water enema can be used to soften and allow the impaction to pass. Laxatives such as Emollient laxatives (docusate sodium), Stimulant laxatives (bisacodyl), saline laxatives and disaccharide laxatives (lactulose) are also beneficial. Mineral oil and white petroleum lubricants should be avoided due to the risk of aspiration because of their tasteless nature.  

Cisapride, a motility modifier is indicated in early cases of megacolon.

Cisapride, a motility modifier is indicated in early cases of megacolon but is contraindicated in cases of obstruction.

Owners should be educated with regard to management. An appropriate wet diet should be fed, dietary supplementation with bran is helpful in some cases, fresh water should be freely available and activity should be encouraged.

Owners should be educated with regard to management. An appropriate wet diet should be fed, dietary supplementation with bran is helpful in some cases, fresh water should be freely available and activity should be encouraged.

===Surgery===

===Surgery===