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Related Concept Videos

Intestinal Obstruction I: Introduction01:29

Intestinal Obstruction I: Introduction

Intestinal obstruction is a partial or complete blockage of the small or large intestine that disrupts the normal flow of intestinal contents through the lumen. This interruption impairs digestion, absorption, and fluid balance, and may lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.Mechanical ObstructionMechanical obstruction occurs when a physical blockage prevents intestinal contents from passing, arising from within the lumen or the bowel wall, or from external compression.Adhesions,...
Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology01:07

Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology

Intestinal obstruction triggers a series of physiological responses, starting with gas and fluid accumulation in the bowel segment proximal to the obstruction, leading to distension. This distended intestine compresses the diaphragm, hindering lung expansion and potentially leading to reduced respiratory effort, atelectasis, and pneumonia.To overcome the blockage, the gut intensifies contractions, causing colicky abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, which reduces fluid and food intake and...
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,...
Pyloric Obstruction01:11

Pyloric Obstruction

Pyloric obstruction, also referred to as gastric outlet obstruction, is a condition characterized by narrowing or blockage at the pylorus—the muscular valve regulating the flow of stomach contents into the duodenum. When this passage becomes impaired, the stomach cannot effectively empty its contents into the small intestine. This disruption leads to a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including early satiety, bloating, epigastric pain, postprandial nausea, persistent vomiting, and...
Irritable Bowel Syndrome01:23

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

DefinitionIrritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by recurrent combinations of abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation.Pathophysiology of irritable bowel syndromeIts pathophysiology is multifactorial, involving disturbances in motility, sensory processing, microbial balance, barrier integrity, and gut–brain communication. These mechanisms interact to produce symptoms that vary across IBS subtypes.Altered Motility PatternsDisordered...
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...

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Updated: Jul 2, 2026

Ginger Moxibustion, A Non-pharmacological Treatment, for Diarrhea in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
03:25

Ginger Moxibustion, A Non-pharmacological Treatment, for Diarrhea in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Published on: December 27, 2024

[Obstructed defecation syndrome].

Ron Greenberg1, Refael Itah, Roey Dekel

  • 1Department of Surgery A,Tel Aviv Medical Center, the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.

Harefuah
|August 13, 2008
PubMed
Summary

Constipation is increasingly common, affecting 20% of adults. This review focuses on obstructed defecation syndrome, a condition impacting 7% of adults and often requiring surgical intervention.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Physiology
  • Colorectal Surgery

Context:

  • Constipation prevalence is rising globally, particularly in Western countries.
  • Affects approximately 20% of the general population, with higher rates in the elderly and females.
  • Classified as primary (colonic inertia, defecatory disturbance) or secondary (medications, diseases like hypothyroidism).

Purpose:

  • To review the definitions, symptoms, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatments of obstructed defecation syndrome (ODS).
  • To highlight the importance of accurately diagnosing ODS, especially given the rise in surgical treatment options.
  • To elucidate the physiological processes of defecation and how their disruption leads to constipation.

Summary:

  • Advances in understanding defecation physiology reveal key roles for rectal sensation, anorectal pressures, and muscle/sphincter coordination.

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: Jul 2, 2026

Ginger Moxibustion, A Non-pharmacological Treatment, for Diarrhea in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
03:25

Ginger Moxibustion, A Non-pharmacological Treatment, for Diarrhea in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Published on: December 27, 2024

  • ODS results from abnormal pelvic floor muscle function or anatomical abnormalities, causing difficulties in defecation.
  • ODS is estimated to affect 7% of adults and accounts for one-third of all constipation cases.

    • Impact:

    • Accurate diagnosis of ODS is crucial for effective management, particularly for patients considering surgery.
    • Improved understanding of ODS pathophysiology can lead to better diagnostic tools and targeted therapies.
    • This review provides a comprehensive resource for clinicians managing patients with constipation and ODS.