THE ROLE OF COLONOSCOPY IN THE MANAGEMENT OF CHRONIC CONSTIPATION

Abstract

Constipation is a condition frequently encountered in general medical practice. In recent years, it has been demonstrated that chronic constipation has an impact on survival prognosis, and attention has been drawn to its diagnosis and treatment. Regarding the relationship between chronic constipation and colorectal cancer, it has been reported that chronic constipation does not necessarily increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Melanosis coli is associated with an increase in the adenoma detection rate during colonoscopy. Chronic constipation appears not to be associated with colonic diverticulosis. Colonoscopic examination of patients with chronic constipation is useful for diagnosing the underlying organic disease such as colorectal cancer and constipation-related colorectal disease such as melanosis coli, solitary rectal ulcer syndrome/mucosal prolapse syndrome, and stercoral ulcer. Furthermore, colonoscopy is performed in the endoscopic treatment of chronic constipation such as endoscopic balloon dilatation, colonic stent placement, and percutaneous endoscopic cecostomy.