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Related Experiment Videos

Neurophysiological dysfunction in young women with intractable constipation.

J S Varma1, A N Smith

  • 1University Department of Surgery/Urology, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh.

Gut
|July 1, 1988
PubMed
Summary
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Chronic idiopathic constipation in women may stem from a central neurogenic deficit affecting rectal sensation and reflexes. Further investigation revealed prolonged pudendo-anal reflex latency and increased rectal compliance in affected individuals.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Gastroenterology
  • Urology

Background:

  • Chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) significantly impacts quality of life.
  • Urological disturbances are frequently observed in women with CIC.
  • Lumbosacral spinal dysraphism has been incidentally found in some CIC patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate neurophysiological differences in women with intractable CIC.
  • To compare anorectal function and sensation between constipated women and controls.
  • To explore potential central neurogenic contributions to CIC.

Main Methods:

  • Anorectal manometry and neurophysiological evaluation of the conus medullaris and external anal sphincter.
  • Comparison between 15 women with CIC and 25 asymptomatic female controls.

Related Experiment Videos

  • Assessment of sphincter pressures, rectosphincteric reflex, rectal sensation, rectal compliance, pudendo-anal reflex latency, and external anal sphincter motor unit potential duration.

    • Main Results:

    • No significant differences in sphincter pressures or rectosphincteric reflex between groups.
    • Blunted rectal defecatory sensation and increased rectal compliance in the CIC group.
    • Significantly prolonged pudendo-anal reflex latency observed in women with CIC, with two cases showing absent reflexes.

    Conclusions:

    • A central neurogenic deficit is implicated in some cases of intractable CIC in women.
    • Abnormalities in rectal sensation and pudendo-anal reflex suggest a neurological basis.
    • Findings highlight the need for comprehensive neurophysiological assessment in CIC evaluation.