ABSTRACT
Constipation is a very common disorder that adversely affects well-being and quality of life. Evidence-based clinical practice guidelines are an essential element for proper patient management and safe, effective treatment. The aim of these guidelines is to provide health care professionals who care for patients with chronic constipation with a tool that allows them to make the best decisions about the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of constipation. The methodology used to draw up these guidelines is described in the Part 1. In this article we will discuss the recommendations for the diagnostic and therapeutic management of constipation.
Subject(s)
Constipation/diagnosis , Constipation/therapy , Adult , Decision Trees , Humans , Practice Guidelines as TopicABSTRACT
Advances in the field of small-bowel motility in the last few years include the delineation of the role of the intrinsic primary afferent neuron in eliciting the peristaltic reflex, the genetic control of the development of the enteric nervous system, and the potential role of the interstitial cells of Cajal as pacemakers of the intestine and colon. New promising molecules have been developed for therapeutic purposes, particularly in the modulators of serotonin receptors. Their effects on sensory and motor function has allowed a better recognition of the important role of 5-hydroxytryptamine in several disorders, especially in irritable bowel syndrome. In this brief review, we have elected to appraise the advances pertaining to human studies, with emphasis on novel methodologies, disease manifestations, and novel therapeutic strategies.
