Constipation affects 4% of adults in the United States (U.S.). An estimated half of
constipated patients are unable to relax pelvic floor muscles during defecation, a type of
constipation called pelvic floor dyssynergia (PFD). Biofeedback has been recommended for the
treatment of constipation because uncontrolled studies over the past 10 years suggest that
these treatments are as effective as medical or surgical management and involve no risk.
However, placebo-controlled trials are still lacking. The aims of this study are:
- to compare biofeedback to alternative therapies for which patients have a similar
expectation of benefit;
- to identify which patients are most likely to benefit; and
- to assess the impact of treatment on quality of life.
Phase:
N/A
Details
Lead Sponsor:
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)