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Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2007; 20(2): 110-117
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-977489
Copyright © 2007 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Constipation and Obstructed Defecation

Scott R. Steele1 , Anders Mellgren2
  • 1Department of Surgery, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, Washington
  • 2Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
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Publication History

Publication Date:
09 May 2007 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Difficulties with bowel function are common and may be due to several causes including slow colonic transit and obstructed defecation. The anatomical and pathophysiological changes associated with these conditions are varying, often incompletely understood, and in many cases have limited treatment outcomes. Patients present with variable complaints and have previously tried a plethora of over-the-counter medications in an effort to relieve their symptoms. Physicians need an organized approach to manage these patients optimally. Improvements over the past few years in our understanding of the complex process of defecation, along with the increasing use of radiological and anorectal physiology studies, have led to improved treatment results.

KEYWORDS

Constipation - obstructive defecation - rectal prolapse - rectocele

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Scott R SteeleM.D. 

Department of Surgery, Madigan Army Medical Center

9040 A Fitzsimmons Dr., Tacoma, WA 98431

Email: docsteele@hotmail.com