Colorectal motility and defecation after spinal cord injury in humans

Following spinal cord injury, colorectal problems are a significant cause of morbidity, and chronic gastrointestinal problems remain common with increasing time after injury. Although many cord-injured patients achieve an adequate bowel frequency with drugs and manual stimulation, the risk and occurrence of fecal incontinence, difficulties with evacuation, and need for assistance remain significant problems. The underlying physiology of colorectal motility and defecation is reviewed, and consequences of spinal cord injury on defecation are reported. A discussion of present management techniques is undertaken and new directions in management and research are suggested. There is need for more intervention in regard to bowel function that could improve quality of life, but there is also a need for more research in this area.