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Related Concept Videos

Assessment of the Rectum and Anus01:25

Assessment of the Rectum and Anus

Evaluating the rectum and anus plays a crucial role in conducting a thorough physical examination of the gastrointestinal system. Although it may be uncomfortable and often embarrassing for the patient, it holds immense diagnostic value, particularly in detecting gastrointestinal diseases and abnormalities. This guide will explain how to perform this assessment using inspection and palpation methods.
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Drugs for Treatment of Constipation-Predominant IBS01:21

Drugs for Treatment of Constipation-Predominant IBS

Pharmacological therapies for IBS-C are designed to alleviate abdominal discomfort and enhance bowel function. In patients with IBS-C, fiber supplements may help soften stools and decrease straining, but may also lead to increased gas production and bloating. Osmotic laxatives like milk of magnesia are frequently used to soften stools and increase stool frequency in IBS-C patients. In addition, two drugs approved for use in severe IBS-C adult cases are linaclotide (Linzess) and lubiprostone...
Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy01:26

Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy

Sigmoidoscopy and laparoscopy are distinct medical procedures that enable physicians to internally inspect different parts of the GI tract. Although they serve different purposes, each is essential for diagnosing and, in some cases, treating various medical conditions.
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
Drugs Affecting GI Tract Motility: Other Laxatives01:20

Drugs Affecting GI Tract Motility: Other Laxatives

Laxatives are primarily used to alleviate constipation, a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by infrequent bowel movements and difficulty passing stools. They work by various mechanisms to increase the volume or frequency of bowel movements. The primary modes of action of laxatives include increasing stool bulk, softening the stool, stimulating intestinal motility, and osmotically drawing water into the intestines.
Osmotic or saline laxatives, like magnesium hydroxide or milk of...
Irritable Bowel Syndrome III: Medical and Nursing Management01:30

Irritable Bowel Syndrome III: Medical and Nursing Management

Managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) involves a multifaceted approach, including lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and medication.
Endoscopic Procedures II: Colonoscopy01:25

Endoscopic Procedures II: Colonoscopy

The colon, or large intestine, is the final segment of the digestive system. Its primary functions include absorbing water and vitamins produced by gut bacteria and transforming waste from liquid to solid to form stool. In adults, the large intestine is approximately 5 feet long and consists of four main sections:

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 14, 2026

Acupoint Application Combined with Acupoint Massage for Treating Constipation in a Patient with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
03:50

Acupoint Application Combined with Acupoint Massage for Treating Constipation in a Patient with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Published on: August 18, 2023

The difficult patient with constipation.

Stefan Müller-Lissner1

  • 1Humboldt University Berlin, Department of Internal Medicine, Park-Klinik Weissensee, Schoenstrasse 80, 13086 Berlin, Germany. mueli@park-klinik.com

Best Practice & Research. Clinical Gastroenterology
|June 5, 2007
PubMed
Summary

Managing difficult constipation involves detailed patient history, symptom analysis, and proctological exams. While rare causes exist, most patients require tailored, long-term laxative therapy, considering psychological factors and potential surgical complications.

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: Jul 14, 2026

Acupoint Application Combined with Acupoint Massage for Treating Constipation in a Patient with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
03:50

Acupoint Application Combined with Acupoint Massage for Treating Constipation in a Patient with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Published on: August 18, 2023

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Colorectal Surgery

Background:

  • Chronic constipation affects patients for years, often with prior physician consultations and laxative use.
  • Identifying the precise cause of difficult constipation is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To outline diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for patients with difficult constipation.
  • To emphasize the importance of individualized treatment plans and pharmacological knowledge of laxatives.

Main Methods:

  • Detailed patient history and symptom analysis.
  • Proctological examination and technical investigations.
  • Assessment of psychological factors and surgical options.

Main Results:

  • Rarely, treatable causes like rectocele or rectal intussusception are identified, potentially requiring proctosurgery.
  • Most cases necessitate individualized laxative treatment, often combining macrogol and stimulant laxatives.
  • Total colectomy is an option but carries significant complication risks.

Conclusions:

  • Comprehensive evaluation, including history and examination, is key to managing difficult constipation.
  • Pharmacological knowledge and individualized treatment are essential for laxative therapy.
  • Surgical interventions like colectomy should be considered cautiously due to potential complications.