Rectal ectasia in children: challenges in management.

Rectal ectasia is a condition characterized by significant dilatation of the rectum. It can be either primary or secondary to distal obstruction. The literature does not clarify the embryo-pathogenesis, diagnostic criteria, investigation protocols, or management strategies. A key aspect of diagnosis is to exclude medical causes of constipation and Hirschsprung's disease. Surgical management involves various interventions, but insufficient data support the literature. Here, we describe our experience with two children diagnosed with rectal ectasia. We discuss the presentation, diagnosis, surgical intervention, complications, and the rationale for selecting one procedure over another while reviewing the relevant literature.