[Chinese expert consensus on the examination and evaluation of chronic constipation (2024 edition)].

Abstract

Chronic constipation is a common functional bowel disease, and its diagnosis is based on history and physical examination. Laboratory examination is important for determining the cause, type, severity and treatment effect of chronic constipation. At present, the commonly used workup of chronic constipation includes X-ray, magnetic resonance, pelvic floor ultrasound, neuroelectrophysiology and colorectal manometry, etc., which are recommended in many constipation diagnosis and treatment guidelines, but there has been no consensus on various examination indications, examination methods, judgment criteria and clinical value norms in detail. Led by the Anorectal Physicians Branch of the Chinese Medical Doctor Association, the editorial department of the Chinese Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery convened domestic experts in related fields to summarize and sort out common laboratory examination methods for chronic constipation in combination with the latest evidence-based medical evidence at home and abroad, and conducted evidence quality assessment and recommendation strength classification according to the GRADE system. The Chinese Expert Consensus on the Examination and Evaluation of Chronic Constipation (2024 edition) was thus formed to help and guide the standardized examination in clinical practice and accurately interpret its clinical value.