[Diagnostic explorations in constipation]

In 40 patients affected with ano-rectal diseases and presenting with severe constipation, the following tests have been performed: ano-rectal manometry, measurement of the sensitivity to rectal distention, study of intestinal transit time; also in some cases a defecography, double contrast barium enema, biopsies, neurological examination, and blood sugar. In 45% of the cases, the examinations enabled to specify the cause of the constipation and establish corresponding therapeutic indications.