Disorders of the colon and rectum may be associated with permanent impairment. Criteria for the impairment have been published by the American Medical Association (AMA).
Parameters:
(1) signs and symptoms
(2) restriction on activities and constitutional findings
(3) therapy
Signs and symptoms:
(1) history of previous colonic surgery
(2) gastrointestinal bleeding
(3) stool frequency
(4) nocturnal incontinence
(5) abdominal pain
(6) weight loss
(7) limited activity
(8) abdominal masses
Signs and Symptoms
Restrictions and Constitutional Findings
Therapy
Impairment Whole Person
infrequent and brief
no limits on activities; no systemic findings; no weight loss
no special diet or medication required; no sequelae after surgical procedures
0 - 9%
mild with occasional disturbances of bowel function; moderate pain
no weight loss
minimal dietary restriction; mild symptomatic therapy may be needed
10 – 24%
moderate to severe exacerbations; periodic or continual pain
restriction in activities; constitutional findings (fever, anemia, weight loss)
special diet and drugs required during attacks
25 – 49%
persistent; severe persistent pain; no prolonged remissions
restriction in activities; constitutional findings (fever, anemia, weight loss)
restriction in diet and medications do not entirely control symptoms
50 – 75%
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