Actual role of stapled transanal rectal resection (STARR) for obstructed defecation syndrome

\Internal rectal prolapse (rectal intussusception) and rectocele are frequent clinical findings in patients suffering from refractory constipation that may be best characterized as "obstructive defecation syndrome" (ODS). However, there is still no clear evidence whether the STARR procedure (stapled transanal rectal resection) provides a safe and effective surgical option for symptom resolution in ODS patients, as evidence-based guidelines and functional long-term results of representative collectives are still lacking. Based on published data derived from the German STARR registry, the STARR procedure can be performed safely with low morbidity. The definitive role of the STARR procedure has to be assessed by careful and prospective evaluation of long-term function, symptom resolution, and quality of life, e.g., as provided by the German STARR registry.