We performed a study of forty-three patients who had type-III
osteogenesis imperfecta. Our purpose was to determine the frequency and
severity of abdominal problems and the relationship between these problems
and pelvic deformity. Twelve patients had had recurrent episodes of
abdominal pain. Eleven of them had a history of chronic constipation, and
five had been treated for fecal impaction. Radiographs had been made for
ten of these patients, and eight of them had radiographic evidence of
pelvic deformity with severe acetabular protrusion. Chronic constipation
and recurrent abdominal pain are more frequent in patients who have
osteogenesis imperfecta and acetabular protrusion than in those who do not
have protrusion. These patients may benefit from early attention to a bowel
program and referral to a gastrointestinal specialist.