[Functional megacolon in children].

The author discusses a group of 21 children (15 boys and % girls aged between 4 and 16 years) with diagnosed syndrome of the functional megacolon. Possible causes of the chronic constipation which could lead to the functional megacolon have been analysed. The treatment--preceded by the detailed analysis of anamnesis and laboratory tests (rectoscopy and contrast medium enema)--included: enemas washing out the colon, emollient and laxative agents, fiber-rich diet, and instructions on the proper defecation. Excellent therapeutical results seem to result from the detailed explanation of causes of the functional megacolon. It has enabled to avoid surgical treatment which should be carried out in these cases in which long-term conservative treatment failed.