Name of the Condition

• Common name: Fecal Impaction
• Medical term: Fecal Impaction
• ICD Code: K56.41

Summary

Fecal impaction is a condition where a large, hardened mass of stool becomes stuck in the colon or rectum, making it difficult or impossible to pass. It often results in severe constipation and discomfort.

Causes

Fecal impaction is typically caused by chronic constipation, leading to the accumulation of stool that hardens over time. Other causes may include a diet low in fiber, inadequate fluid intake, decreased physical activity, or certain medications that slow bowel movements.

Risk Factors

• Age (more common in older adults)
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Diet low in fiber
• Chronic use of laxatives or opioids
• Neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease
• Previous pelvic or abdominal surgeries

Symptoms

• Abdominal pain or distension
• Inability to pass stool
• Nausea or vomiting
• Rectal discomfort or pain
• Liquid stool leaking around the impaction (overflow diarrhea)

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of fecal impaction usually involves a physical examination, including a digital rectal exam. Imaging tests such as abdominal X-rays or a CT scan may also be used to evaluate the extent of the impaction.

Treatment Options

• Manual Removal: Physical removal of stool by a healthcare provider.
• Enemas or Laxatives: To soften the stool and promote bowel movements.
• Medications: Suppositories or oral medications to help clear the impaction.
• Surgical Intervention: In severe cases where other methods are unsuccessful, surgical removal may be necessary.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

With appropriate treatment, prognosis is generally good, although recurrence is possible if underlying causes are not addressed. Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is important to monitor progress and prevent recurrences.

Complications

• Bowel perforation
• Rectal bleeding or ulceration
• Hemorrhoids
• Urinary tract infections from pressure on the bladder

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Increasing dietary fiber intake
• Drinking plenty of fluids
• Engaging in regular physical activity
• Avoiding excessive use of medications that cause constipation
• Establishing regular bowel habits

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe abdominal pain, vomiting, inability to pass stool, or signs of bowel obstruction.

Additional Resources

• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
• American College of Gastroenterology
• Local health department resources for dietary and lifestyle advice

Tips for Medical Coders

• Verify the diagnosis of fecal impaction through patient records and clinical documentation.
• Check for any secondary conditions that may need additional coding (e.g., bowel obstruction).
• Avoid common errors by not confusing fecal impaction with other types of obstruction or constipation without clinical evidence.