Constipation: Evaluation and Treatment of Colonic and Anorectal Motility Disorders

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60 Scopus citations

Abstract

This article focuses on the colonic and anorectal motility disturbances that are associated with chronic constipation and their management. Functional chronic constipation consists of three overlapping subtypes: slow transit constipation, dyssynergic defecation, and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation. The Rome criteria may serve as a useful guide for making a clinical diagnosis of functional constipation. Today, an evidence-based approach can be used to treat patients with chronic constipation. The availability of specific drugs for the treatment of chronic constipation, such as tegaserod and lubiprostone, has enhanced the therapeutic armamentarium for managing these patients. Randomized controlled trials have also established the efficacy of biofeedback therapy in the treatment of dyssynergic defecation.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)117-139
Number of pages23
JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy Clinics of North America
Volume19
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2009
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Anorectal manometry
  • Balloon expulsion test
  • Colon
  • Constipation
  • Dyssynergic defecation
  • Irritable bowel syndrome

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Gastroenterology

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