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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,...
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...
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...
Diverticular Disease of the Colon01:27

Diverticular Disease of the Colon

Diverticular disease involves the formation of diverticula—small sac-like outpouchings of the colonic wall—and their complications. It most commonly affects the sigmoid colon due to higher intraluminal pressure and structural vulnerability. It results from structural weakness and increased pressure in the colon, producing pseudodiverticula that may remain silent or progress to inflammation and serious complications.Structure of DiverticulaIn diverticulosis, these outpouchings are...
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...

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Incorporating Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy in the Treatment of Obstructed Defecation Syndrome and Posterior Compartment Pelvic Organ and Rectal Prolapse: Proceedings of the Consensus Meeting of the Pelvic Floor Consortium of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, the International Continence Society, the International Urogynecological Association, the American Urogynecologic Society, and the American Physical Therapy Association.

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 17, 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

Constipation and obstructed defecation.

Scott R Steele1, Anders Mellgren

  • 1Department of Surgery, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA 98431, USA. docsteele@hotmail.com

Clinics in Colon and Rectal Surgery
|December 17, 2009
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Bowel dysfunction, including slow colonic transit and obstructed defecation, presents complex challenges. Improved understanding and diagnostic tools are enhancing treatment outcomes for these common conditions.

Keywords:
Constipationobstructive defecationrectal prolapserectocele

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: Jun 17, 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 and Colorectal Surgery

Background:

  • Bowel function difficulties are prevalent, stemming from causes like slow colonic transit and obstructed defecation.
  • The underlying anatomical and pathophysiological changes are complex, variable, and not fully understood, often leading to limited treatment success.
  • Patients frequently self-medicate with over-the-counter options without optimal relief.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To outline an organized approach for physicians managing patients with complex bowel dysfunction.
  • To highlight advancements in understanding defecation and diagnostic techniques.
  • To emphasize the impact of improved knowledge and technology on treatment efficacy.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current understanding of defecation physiology.
  • Integration of radiological studies in diagnosis.
  • Application of anorectal physiology testing.

Main Results:

  • Enhanced comprehension of the defecation process.
  • Increased utilization of advanced diagnostic imaging and physiological assessments.
  • Demonstrated improvements in treatment results for bowel dysfunction.

Conclusions:

  • A structured medical approach, supported by modern diagnostics, is crucial for managing bowel dysfunction.
  • Advances in understanding and technology are improving therapeutic outcomes.
  • Optimizing patient care requires a comprehensive diagnostic and management strategy.