Colonic Electrical Stimulation for Chronic Constipation: A Perspective Review.

Area of Science:

• Bioelectronic Medicine
• Gastroenterology
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Chronic constipation impacts approximately 20% of the global population, with limited therapeutic options.
• Current treatments for chronic constipation often lack efficacy and can have side effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential of colonic electric stimulation (CES) as a novel therapeutic strategy for chronic constipation.
• To review the neurophysiology, pathophysiology, and technical considerations of CES.

Main Methods:

• Review of neurophysiological mechanisms of colonic peristalsis.
• Analysis of chronic constipation pathophysiology.
• Examination of technical aspects of CES, including stimulation parameters and electrode placement.
• Comprehensive review of animal models for CES research.

Main Results:

• CES, utilizing neural implants, presents a viable bioelectronic medicine approach.
• Understanding neurophysiology and pathophysiology is crucial for effective CES target selection.
• Animal models provide mechanistic insights but have limitations in translational relevance.

Conclusions:

• CES holds significant promise for treating chronic constipation.
• Further research and development are needed to overcome challenges in CES implementation.
• Advancements in bioelectronic medicine are key to realizing CES's therapeutic potential.