CONSTIPATION: Balloon Expulsion Test

A diagnostic test for constipation

In balloon expulsion test, this just requires a latex balloon attached to a catheter with a water-filled syringe to inflate the balloon.

1. First of all, the patient was placed in left lateral position.

2. The empty balloon was lubricated properly. Then, it was gently inserted into the patient rectum. The balloon is inflated with 50 mL of water, or until the patient feel the desire to defecate.

3. Patients are then asked to attempt to evacuate the balloon in the sitting position in privacy.

4. The time required for balloon expulsion while on-commode position was recorded. The test was stopped if the balloon was not expelled by 5 minutes and the balloon was removed.