What Is Obstructive defecation syndrome?

When a patient has difficulty in passing stools due to mechanical factors of the anal canal, rectum and pelvic floor, it is called ODS (Obstructive Defecation Syndrome). Such patients usually experience fragmented stools, pain and strain while passing motions, feeling of incomplete evacuation, heaviness, etc. Obstructive defecation problem is more common among women.

What are the signs and symptoms of ODS?

The most common symptom is feeling of incomplete evacuation and that stools are not fully emptied. Besides, there is pain and strain while defecating. Those who need to regularly take laxatives or enema may be suffering from this disease.

What are the causes of Obstructive Defecation Syndrome?

It could be due to genetic deformity, injury or age related problem, problem related to digestive tract, impacted stools or neurological problems. The supportive tissues surrounding the wall between vagina and anus can be damaged during vaginal delivery and hence women are more prone to this disease. It may also be due to sliding down of pelvic structures which cause temporary obstruction.

How is ODS diagnosed?

Doctors at Proctocare clinic will do a physical examination to check the problem. With the help of advance equipment, various tests can be done to detect and understand the underlying cause of the disease. These include:

• Colonoscopy: Proctocare clinic is equipped with the advanced machinery like colonoscope to conduct this test.
• Anal Manometry to determine how is the anus and muscles around it are functioning
• Sigmoidoscopy to view the sigmoid colon
• MR Defecography to assess the bowel function
• Colonic marker studies to determine the efficiency of your digestive tract

What are the various treatments available for obstructive defecation syndrome?

Depending on the underlying cause of the disease, the doctor plans the treatment. These include:

• Medications to relieve constipation
• Biofeedback to help you regain control of your muscles
• Surgery to repair or correct anatomical deformities
• STARR Procedure which removes prolapsed mucosa with the help of staplers