PT  - JOURNAL ARTICLE
AU  - David E. Beck
TI  - Evaluation and Management of Constipation
DP  - 2008 Mar 20
TA  - Ochsner Journal
PG  - 25--31
VI  - 8
IP  - 1
4099  - http://www.ochsnerjournal.org/content/8/1/25.short
4100  - http://www.ochsnerjournal.org/content/8/1/25.full
SO  - Ochsner J2008 Mar 20; 8
AB  - Constipation is a common clinical problem. The evaluation and management of most patients are within the capability of interested, well-trained primary care physicians. The diagnostic evaluation includes an adequate history to exclude treatable etiologies, anatomic evaluation of the colon, and functional studies in refractory patients. Treatment options include medication adjustment and associated disease treatment, followed by a trial of daily fiber or laxatives. Appropriate patients should be referred for consideration of surgical treatment, which usually involves a colectomy and ileoproctostomy for colonic inertia.