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Evaluation and treatment of constipation
T Takahashi1, S D Fitzgerald, J H Pemberton
1Department of Surgery, Instituto Nacional de Nutrición, Mexico City, Mexico.
Revista De Gastroenterologia De Mexico
|April 1, 1994
Summary
Constipation often indicates underlying diseases. Evaluating colonic transit and pelvic floor function helps diagnose causes and improve treatment outcomes for functional constipation.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Colorectal Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Constipation is a common symptom frequently linked to various underlying medical conditions.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management and treatment of constipation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline diagnostic approaches for identifying extracolonic and structural colonic causes of constipation.
- To emphasize the importance of evaluating colonic transit and pelvic floor function in functional constipation.
Main Methods:
- Clinical history and physical examination.
- Diagnostic imaging techniques such as barium enema and colonoscopy.
- Assessment of colonic transit and pelvic floor function.
Main Results:
- Clinical evaluation and imaging can diagnose structural colonic and extracolonic causes of constipation.
- Comprehensive functional assessments aid in categorizing pathophysiologic mechanisms of functional constipation.
Conclusions:
- Identifying the specific cause of constipation is essential for targeted treatment.
- Evaluating colonic transit and pelvic floor function optimizes patient selection for surgical interventions and enhances surgical outcomes.