MOTILITY AND FUNCTIONAL DISEASES OF THE LARGE-INTESTINE

Biofeedback therapy is a major advance in the treatment of intractable constipation; several recent publications testify to its effectiveness. The irritable bowel syndrome is increasingly regarded as a problem of sensory function and perception; psychologically based treatments offer more sustained success than drug treatment. The prevalence of constipation following hysterectomy has been prospectively determined and associated sensory changes documented. The roles of 5-hydroxytryptamine and erythromycin in the regulation of colonic motility are discussed. Defecation has been characterized by high-amplitude propagated contraction, rectal contraction, and early relaxation of the anal sphincter. Other recent observations on colonic motor function are highlighted.