Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2018; 31(01): 017-023
DOI: 10.1055/s-0037-1602182
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Rectal Trauma: Evidence-Based Practices

Michael S. Clemens
1   Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, San Antonio Military Medical Center, Sam Houston, Texas
,
Kaitlin M. Peace
1   Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, San Antonio Military Medical Center, Sam Houston, Texas
,
Fia Yi
1   Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, San Antonio Military Medical Center, Sam Houston, Texas
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
19 December 2017 (online)

Abstract

The management of rectal trauma has often been lumped in with colon trauma when, in fact, it is a unique entity. The anatomic nature of the rectum (with its intra- and extraperitoneal segments) lends itself to unique circumstances when it comes to management and treatment. From the four Ds (debridement, drainage, diversion, and distal irrigation), the management of rectal trauma has made some strides in light of the experiences coming out of the recent conflicts overseas as well as some rethinking of dogma. This article will serve to review the anatomy and types of injuries associated with rectal trauma. A treatment algorithm will also be presented based on our current literature review. We will also address controversial points and attempt to give our opinion in an effort to provide an update on an age-old problem.

 
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