ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND AND AIMS: The nonpharmacological therapy in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is expanding rapidly. Practitioners and medical educators need to be aware of progress and changes in knowledge of this topic. The Romanian Society of Neurogastroenterology aimed to create guidelines based on best evidence on the use of nonpharmacological therapy in IBS. METHODS: A group of experts was constituted. This was divided in eleven subgroups dedicated to eleven categories of nonpharmacological therapy. The subgroups searched the literature and formulated statements and recommendations. These were submitted to vote in order to obtain consensus. RESULTS: The outcome of this activity is represented by the guidelines of the Romanian Society of Neurogastroenterology, presented in this paper. The recommendations are seen as complementary to the pharmacological therapy and are not intended to recommend avoiding pharmacological drugs. CONCLUSIONS: These guidelines were elaborated by a Delphi process and represent a useful tool for physicians managing patients with IBS.
Subject(s)
Guidelines as Topic , Irritable Bowel Syndrome , Consensus , Humans , Irritable Bowel Syndrome/diagnosis , Irritable Bowel Syndrome/drug therapy , RomaniaABSTRACT
BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Diverticular disease of the colon is a common clinical condition in developed countries, and is associated with significant (direct and indirect) economic burden. The aim of this Position Paper is to provide clinical guidance for appropriate definition, prevalence, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment of colonic diverticular disease. METHODS: A working group of recognized experts established by the Board of the Romanian Society of Gastroenterology and Hepatology (RSGH) screened the literature and the available guidelines on colonic diverticular disease. Statements were formulated based on literature evidence. These statements were discussed within the working group and decision for each of them was taken by consensus. RESULTS: Thirty two statements were elaborated. The grade of recommendation, according to the level of evidence was established for each statement. Short comments with literature support accompany each statement. CONCLUSION: This Position Paper represents a practical guide for clinicians dealing with patients affected by colonic diverticular disease.