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Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2012; 25(01): 020-023
DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1301755
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Surgical Management of Colonic Inertia

Jacob A. McCoy
1   University of Texas Medical School, Houston, Texas.
,
David E. Beck
2   Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Ochsner Clinic Foundation, New Orleans, Louisiana.
3   Ochsner Clinical School, The University of Queensland School of Medicine, Brisbane, Australia.
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
23 March 2012 (online)

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Abstract

For the select small number of constipated patients that cannot be managed medically, surgical options should be considered. Increases in our knowledge of colorectal physiology and experience have fostered improvements in patient evaluation and surgical management. Currently, patients with refractory colonic inertia are offered total abdominal colectomy and ileorectal anastomosis, often with laparoscopic techniques. With proper patient selection, the results have been excellent for resolving the frequency and quality of bowel movements. However, symptoms such as bloating and abdominal pain, which may be related to irritable bowel syndrome rather than the colonic inertia, may persist.

Keywords

constipation - colectomy - colonic inertia - abdominal pain
 

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