Chronic constipation in the elderly

Current Overview on Clinical Management of Chronic Constipation

Constipation is one of the major gastrointestinal disorders diagnosed in clinical practice in Western countries. Almost 20% of population suffer from this disorder, which means constipation is a substantial utilization of healthcare. Pathophysiology of constipation is complex and multifactorial, where aspects like disturbance in colonic transit, genetic predisposition, lifestyle habits, psychological distress, and many others need to be taken into consideration. Diagnosis of constipation is troublesome and requires thorough accurate examination. A nonpharmacological approach, education of the patient about the importance of lifestyle changes like diet and sport activity state, are the first line of therapy. In case of ineffective treatment, pharmacological treatments such as laxatives, secretagogues, serotonergic agonists, and many other medications should be induced. If pharmacologic treatment fails, the definitive solution for constipation might be surgical approach. Commonness of this disorder, costs of medical care and decrease in quality life cause constipation is a serious issue for many specialists. The aim of this review is to present current knowledge of chronic constipation and management of this disorder.

The Influence of Age on Central Effects of Methylnaltrexone in Patients with Opioid-Induced Constipation

Background

Methylnaltrexone, a peripherally acting µ-opioid receptor antagonist approved for the treatment of opioid-induced constipation (OIC), has restricted diffusion across the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and has not been demonstrated to impact opioid-induced central analgesia. Age-related changes in BBB permeability may compromise methylnaltrexone’s restricted diffusion and alter opioid-induced central analgesic effects.

Objective

This analysis evaluated whether opioid analgesia is compromised in older adults receiving methylnaltrexone for OIC.

Methods

The analysis included adults diagnosed with OIC who received opioids for pain management and who had a terminal illness or chronic nonmalignant pain. Data were pooled from four randomized, double-blind trials and stratified by age (< 65 years and ≥ 65 years). Endpoints included pain intensity scores, symptoms of opioid withdrawal, treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs), and rescue-free laxation (RFL) within 4 h of treatment.

Results

Overall, 1323 patients were < 65 years of age (n = 908, methylnaltrexone; n = 415, placebo) and 304 patients were ≥ 65 years of age (n = 171, methylnaltrexone; n = 133, placebo). Nonsignificant pain intensity score reductions were observed in all groups. In the older cohort, measures of opioid withdrawal did not show statistical differences from baseline in either the methylnaltrexone or placebo groups. The most frequently reported TRAEs were abdominal pain, flatulence, and nausea. Relative to the first dose, gastrointestinal TRAEs potentially related to opioid withdrawal declined with the second dose and were comparable with placebo, regardless of age. RFL response within 4 h of methylnaltrexone treatment increased significantly in both age cohorts relative to placebo.

Conclusions

Methylnaltrexone use did not adversely affect pain control, opioid withdrawal effects, or AEs while providing effective RFL, regardless of age. These results suggest that age does not appear to influence the safety and efficacy of methylnaltrexone for OIC. Further research is needed to assess the impact of other factors that alter BBB permeability, such as dementia, stroke, or drug interactions, on the safety and efficacy of methylnaltrexone.

Clinical Trial Registration Numbers

Study 302, NCT00402038; study 3200K1-4000, NCT00672477; study 3200K1-3356, NCT00529087; study 3201, NCT01186770.

A case of colonic obstruction combined with ischemic colitis

CT scan of the abdomen showing a large amount of feces in the anterior descending recto-sigmoid colon with wall thickening (red arrow) and surrounding fat stranding (yellow arrow) suggestive of stercoral colitis.

Effect of biofeedback combined with high-quality nursing in treatment of functional constipation

BACKGROUND

Functional constipation (FC) is a common functional gastrointestinal disease with various clinical manifestations. It is a physical and mental disease, which seriously affects patient physical and mental health and quality of life. Biofeedback therapy is the treatment of choice for FC, especially outlet obstructive constipation caused by pelvic floor dysfunction. High-quality nursing is a new nursing model in modern clinical work and a new concept of modern nursing service.

AIM

To explore the effect of biofeedback combined with high-quality nursing in the treatment of FC.

METHODS

A total of 100 patients with FC admitted to our hospital from March 2015 to July 2019 were selected for clinical observation. These patients were randomly divided into two groups of 50: Experimental group (biofeedback combined with high-quality nursing treatment group) and control group (biofeedback group).

RESULTS

The constipation symptom score of the experimental group was significantly lower than that of the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The anal canal resting pressure and initial defecation threshold of the experimental group were significantly lower than those of the control group, and the maximum squeeze systolic pressure of the anal canal of the experimental group was significantly higher than that of the control group (P < 0.05). The Self-Rating Anxiety Scale and Zung’s Self-Rating Depression Scale scores of the two groups were significantly lower than before treatment. The Self-Rating Anxiety Scale and Self-Rating Depression Scale scores of the experimental group were significantly lower than those of the control group (P < 0.05). The patient satisfaction score of the experimental group was significantly higher than that of the control group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The application of biofeedback combined with high-quality nursing in the treatment of FC has significant advantages over pure biofeedback treatment, and it is worthy of promotion in clinical work.

Improvement of gastrointestinal discomfort and inflammatory status by a synbiotic in middle-aged adults: a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial

Several studies suggest that microbial alterations (dysbiosis) are intimately linked to chronic inflammation occurring upon aging. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential interest of a synbiotic approach (co-administration of a probiotic bacteria and a prebiotic dietary fibre) to improve gastrointestinal wellness and inflammatory markers in middle-aged people. Middle-aged subjects were randomized to take synbiotic (Bifidobacterium animalis lactis and fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS)) or placebo for 30 days. Stool frequency and consistency were improved in both placebo and synbiotic-treated volunteers while the synbiotic treatment significantly decreased the number of days with abdominal discomfort. Synbiotic treatment had no impact on mood dimensions, quality of life scores or the overall composition of the gut microbiota (16S rRNA gene sequencing of DNA extracted from stool). Importantly, plasma proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, IL-17a and interferon-gamma (IFNγ)) were significantly lower after 30 days of synbiotic supplementation. This effect appears to be independent of the gut barrier function. This study demonstrates that a combination of B. animalis lactis and the well-known prebiotic FOS could be a promising synbiotic strategy to decrease inflammatory status with improvement of gut disorders in middle-aged people.

Constipation and Its Associated Factors among Patients with Dementia

Constipation is one of the most frequent non-motor problems in older adults. As constipation is commonly ignored by dementia patients, it is not usually reported on time. Constipation has a serious impact on the activity of daily living and quality of life in dementia patients. The relationships between constipation, demographic variables, and the nutritional status of patients with dementia remain unknown. This study aimed to assess the possible factors associated with constipation. This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital from January to November 2019. This hospital is a medical center and the main referral hospital of southern Taiwan, serving 3 million inhabitants. In total, 119 patients with dementia were evaluated using the Rome III diagnostic criteria for functional constipation. There were 30 patients with dementia included in the constipation group and 89 patients with dementia included in the no constipation group. Mini-Nutritional Assessment and 3-day diet diary records were employed. The clinical dementia rating score was used to evaluate the severity of dementia in patients of the outpatient clinic. Approximately 25.2% of dementia patients had constipation. Patients in the dementia with constipation group were older, had severer dementia, and displayed a lower water intake. After multivariable adjustment, low liquid consumption was the predictor of constipation among patients with dementia. The findings support the clinical recommendations to treat constipation with an increased liquid intake, but not exercise, in dementia patients.

Efficacy and safety of darolutamide in Japanese patients with nonmetastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer: a sub-group analysis of the phase III ARAMIS trial

Background

Darolutamide, an oral androgen receptor inhibitor, has been approved for treating nonmetastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (nmCRPC), based on significant improvements in metastasis-free survival (MFS) in the ARAMIS clinical trial. Efficacy and safety of darolutamide in Japanese patients are reported here.

Methods

In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase III trial, 1509 patients with nmCRPC and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) doubling time ≤ 10 months were randomized 2:1 to darolutamide 600 mg twice daily or matched placebo while continuing androgen deprivation therapy. The primary endpoint was MFS.

Results

In Japan, 95 patients were enrolled and randomized to darolutamide (n = 62) or placebo (n = 33). At the primary analysis (cut-off date: September 3, 2018), after 20 primary end-point events had occurred, median MFS was not reached with darolutamide vs. 18.2 months with placebo (HR 0.28, 95% CI 0.11–0.70). Median OS was not reached due to limited numbers of events in both groups but favored darolutamide in the Japanese subgroup. Time to pain progression, time to PSA progression, and PSA response also favored darolutamide. Among Japanese patients randomized to darolutamide vs. placebo, incidences of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were 85.5 vs. 63.6%, and incidences of treatment discontinuation due to TEAEs were 8.1 vs. 6.1%.

Conclusions

Efficacy outcomes favored darolutamide in Japanese patients with nmCRPC, supporting the clinical benefit of darolutamide in this patient population. Darolutamide was well tolerated; however, due to the small sample size, it is impossible to conclude with certainty whether differences in the safety profile exist between Japanese and overall ARAMIS populations.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s10147-020-01824-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Pharmacokinetics, safety and metabolite profiling of minesapride, a novel 5-HT4 receptor partial agonist, in healthy elderly and young subjects

Minesapride is a novel 5-hydroxytryptamine 4 (5-HT₄) receptor partial agonist that is expected to show efficacy in patients with irritable bowel syndrome with predominant constipation and functional constipation. An open-label study was conducted to evaluate pharmacokinetics (PK) and safety of minesapride. Japanese subjects, 12 elderly and 12 young, received a single oral dose of minesapride 40 mg/day in the fasted state. Metabolite profiles were also investigated in this clinical study and in an in vitro study using cryopreserved hepatocytes. Clinical results showed that minesapride was rapidly absorbed (C_max: 2302.1 ng/mL in the elderly group, 2117.5 ng/mL in the young group), and the plasma concentration then decreased with half-life of approximately 7 h. There were no notable PK differences between elderly and young groups. No serious adverse events (AEs) were observed. The only AE that occurred in 2 or more subjects was diarrhea. Metabolite profiles in plasma and urine were similar between elderly and young groups. No major metabolites exceeded 10% of unchanged minesapride, and results of the in vitro study suggested that there were no human-specific metabolites. From the viewpoints of PK and metabolite profiling, no dose adjustment of minesapride is warranted in elderly population without renal or hepatic impairment.

Healthcare Professionals' Experiences of Assessing, Treating and Preventing Constipation Among Older Patients During Hospitalization: An Interview Study

PURPOSE

Constipation is a common and troublesome condition among older patients and can result in a variety of negative health consequences. It is often undiagnosed or undertreated. Healthcare professionals have a responsibility to understand and address patients' overall healthcare needs; so exploring their experiences is, therefore, highly relevant. The purpose of the study was to explore healthcare professionals' experiences of assessing, treating and preventing constipation among older patients.

METHODS

A qualitative design with an exploratory approach was used. The participants (registered nurses and physicians) were purposively sampled from three wards in a geriatric department in a medium-sized hospital in Sweden. Data were collected through focus group discussions and individual interviews, and analyzed using content analysis.

RESULTS

Three categories were generated: Reasons for suboptimal management of constipation, Strategies for management, and Approaching the patients' needs. In the care of older patients at risk of or with constipation, decisions were made based on personal knowledge, personal experience and clinical reasoning. A person-centered approach was highlighted but was not always possible to incorporate.

CONCLUSION

Different strategies for preventing and treating constipation were believed to be important, as was person-centered care, but were found to be challenging in the complexity of the care situation. It is important that healthcare professionals reflect on their own knowledge and clinical practice. There is a need for more support, information and specific guidance for healthcare professionals caring for older patients during hospitalization. Overall, this study underscores the importance of adequate access to resources and education in constipation management and that clinical guidelines, such as the Swedish Handbook for Healthcare, could be used as a guide for delivering high-quality care in hospitals.

Evaluation and Treatment of Constipation in the Geriatric Population

Chronic constipation affects one-third of the US population and occurs disproportionately in the elderly and female individuals, increasing in older individuals who are institutionalized. This condition has a significant impact on health care costs and quality of life. Clinicians need to consider primary as well as secondary causes of constipation in elderly individuals because the cause is often multifactorial. Diagnostic algorithms should eliminate red-flag symptoms that may indicate a malignancy but also consider pelvic floor dysfunction, which is more common in this age group. An appropriate treatment plan is tailored to the severity of the patient's symptoms.

Gut microbiota and old age: Modulating factors and interventions for healthy longevity

Our gut microbiota is a complex and dynamic ecosystem with a paramount role in shaping our metabolic and immunological functions. Recent research suggests that aging may negatively affect the composition, diversity, and function of our microbiota mainly due to alterations in diet and immunologic reactivity (i.e. immunosenescence), and increased incidence of certain diseases and, therefore, increased exposure to certain medication (e.g. antibiotics, proton pump inhibitors). In turn, this aging-related gut dysbiosis may contribute to the initiation and/or progress of other metabolic diseases, and consequently, to a decrease in healthy longevity. On the positive side, promising therapeutic interventions, such as diet supplementation with prebiotics, probiotics and synbiotics, or fecal microbiota transplantation, aimed to counteract these aging-related deleterious consequences, could improve our health, and extend our healthy lifespan. In this context, the current review aims to assess the latest progress in identifying the key elements affecting the gut microbiota of the older adults and their mechanism of action, and the effectiveness of the therapeutic interventions aimed at restoring the diversity and healthy functions of the gut microbiota in older individuals.

Effectiveness of acupoint pressure on older people with constipation in nursing homes: a double-blind quasi-experimental study

Aims: To compare the differences between acupoint pressure, abdominal massage and laxatives in treatment of constipation for residents in two nursing homes.Background: There is lack of evidence on the utility of complementary therapies in the management of constipation among older adults.Design: Quasi-experimental.Methods: A total of 90 participants from two nursing homes in Taiwan were assigned to three groups: the control group (with laxatives only), group I (with laxatives and abdominal massage) and group II (with laxatives, acupoint pressure therapy [APT] and abdominal massage). The intervention was performed over 10 days. A double-blind technique was applied in both participants and the outcome assessors. Constipation as main outcome was evaluated and recorded for 10 days. Observation of the frequency of defecation and the consistency, particularly firmness of faeces over each 24 h' period was recorded. The Transparent Reporting of Evaluations with Nonrandomized Designs (TREND) checklist was utilised in reporting methods and findings.Results: Three variations were revealed as interface factors and showed significant differences in each group. The results showed a statistically significant decrease in constipation in the experimental groups I and II. The scores of defecation frequency, difficulty degree and time of defecation, stool quality and awareness of defecation were obviously improved after treatment.Conclusions: We concluded APT could be used in conjunction with laxatives and must be considered as a long-term intervention. The combination of APT, abdominal massage and laxatives is superior to both abdominal massage with laxatives and laxatives alone.Relevance to clinical practice: Acupoint pressure as an effective complementary therapy of constipation among older adults living in nursing home provides a non-pharmacological, independent nursing intervention that nurses could use. This is relevant to nursing home settings where nurses make autonomous decision on important clinical assessments and interventions.

An overview of interventions for constipation in adults

INTRODUCTION

The increasing global prevalence of the symptoms of constipation adversely affects the quality of life (QOL) of symptomatic patients. An acceptable universal definition of constipation does not exist and a detailed history taking form each patient with various complaints including stool consistency, sensing of incomplete evacuation or a manual need to assist evacuation is required. Complexity of obtaining etiologic diagnosis and the wide range of therapeutic options can mislead physicians in choosing correct treatment.

AREAS COVERED

This review, considers the pathophysiology of constipation and the diagnostic approach to identify the etiology of constipation. Available interventions including non-pharmacological, pharmacological, and invasive methods such as acupuncture and surgical management are discussed. This review utilized on PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and clinicaltrials.gov to search for studies and reviews published between 2000 and 2020.

EXPERT COMMENTARY

Constipation necessitates careful considerations to detect the exact pathophysiology. Medical history, focused physical assessments, and selected diagnostic tests help choosing the right management. Non-pharmacological methods are beneficial in most of the cases. If a satisfactory response is not achieved, over the counter or prescribed medications are available. Options for patients who failed to respond to available medications are addressed in this review.

Effectiveness and Safety of Moxibustion on Constipation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the effects and safety of moxibustion in the management of constipation.

Background

Constipation is extremely common in clinical practice and causes physical and mental pain to patients. This study aimed to evaluate the effects and safety of moxibustion in the management of constipation.

Methods

Studies on moxibustion for constipation published up to November 2019 were searched in PubMed; EBSCO; EMBASE; Cochrane Library; and three Chinese databases, namely, China National Knowledge Internet, Wanfang, and China Biomedical Network. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed on the basis of the CLEAR NPT system evaluation methods of Boutron. Further meta-analysis was performed using the RevMan 5.3 and Stata 15.0 software.

Results

Ten randomized controlled trials involving 760 patients were included in this study. The meta-analysis revealed that, in comparison to western medicine treatment or other Chinese medicine methods (control group), moxibustion (experimental group) had a higher total effective rate (RR = 1.30, 95% CI [1.21, 1.40], P < 0.00001), and the clinical effectiveness of the experimental group was higher than that of the control group in any subgroup analysis. The first defecation time of the experimental group was shorter than that of the control group (SMD = -1.36, 95% CI [-2.03, -0.68], P < 0.0001). The clinical symptom score of the patients in the experimental group was lower than that in the control group (SMD = -0.65, 95% CI [-1.00, -0.30], P=0.0003). The patients in the experimental group had higher scores on Bristol stool form scale than those in the control group (MD = 0.99, 95% CI [0.48, 1.50], P=0.0001). However, there was no obvious difference in safety between the two groups (RR = 0.38, 95% CI [0.01, 11.8], P=0.58).

Conclusions

Moxibustion may have better effect than other treatments on constipation. However, it is not yet possible to assess the safety level of moxibustion therapy, and the quality of the included literature is low, so rigorous studies are warranted. Implications for Nursing and Health Policy. The focus of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of moxibustion therapy in constipation. This evaluation showed that moxibustion therapy has a good effect on constipation and provides an effective treatment for constipation patients. Whether moxibustion therapy can be used for different syndrome types deserves further discussion.

Laxative Activities of 80% Methanolic Extract of the Leaves of Grewia ferruginea Hochst Ex A Rich in Mice

Background.

There are numerous medicinal plants including the leaves of Grewia ferruginea used as traditional medicine for the treatment of constipation. This study was conducted to evaluate the laxative activity of the leaves of G ferruginea.

Methods.

The laxative activity of the leaves of G ferruginea was tested using 3 models: laxative activity, gastrointestinal motility, and gastrointestinal secretion tests. The effect of the plant extract on mean number of feces, fecal water content, ratio of intestinal distance traveled by the charcoal meal and intestinal fluid accumulation were evaluated and analyzed.

Results.

Significant increase was observed in the mean weight of wet fecal matter at 200 (1.00 ± 0.03 g, P < .05) and 400 mg/kg (1.01 ± 0.02 g, P < .01), relative to loperamide constipated negative control group. Similarly, percent fecal water content was significantly improved in extract treated groups at 100 mg/kg (52.10% ± 2.04%, P < .05), 200 mg/kg (54.02% ± 2.15%, P < .01), and 400 mg/kg (54.25% ± 2.50%, P < .01) compared with the negative control group. The gastroinestinal transit ratio was also significantly increased with 200 mg/kg (P < .01) and 400 mg/kg (P < .001) of the extract relative to the constipated negative control. The crude extract showed significant increase in intestinal fluid accumulation at 200 mg/kg (0.48 ± 0.07 g, P < .05) and 400 mg/kg (0.51 ± 0.08 g, P < .01) compared with the negative control.

Conclusion.

The results of the present study indicated that 80% methanol extract of the leaves of G ferruginea possessed significant laxative activity. As such, this study corroborates the traditional claim of using G ferruginea in the treatment of constipation.

Advances in surgical strategies for prolapse

Pelvic floor dysfunctions are a complex condition in elderly women; pelvic organ prolapse, urinary or fecal incontinence, constipation, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction are common problems. The goal of surgical treatment is functional reconstruction with symptom management and repair of anatomic defects. The recent advancements in surgical treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction allow several good options for choosing the best surgery for each patient. The vaginal procedure is traditionally the gold standard approach for elderly patients, but abdominal surgery is increasing as a mini-invasive approach and the robotic approach is gaining acceptance for treatment of pelvic floor dysfunctions. In elderly individuals, a multitude of factors affects the final result of any reconstructive surgery such as postmenopausal or aging-associated changes in muscle tone and nerve function or changes in the function of the bladder or of the rectum: an understanding of the underlining functional status of pelvic organs is very important in aging women before proceeding to surgery. In this context, pelvic floor dysfunction, particularly in elderly women, should be addressed in a multidisciplinary manner and, at the forefront, centers for surgical planning could be helpful to perform safer, patient-tailored surgery.

Effectiveness of Acupuncture for Management in a Hospitalized Geriatric Patient with Constipation

Background: Constipation is a gastrointestinal problem commonly found in clinical practice. The prevalence increases with age. Chronic constipation is associated with a decrease in patients' quality of life (QoL). Existing treatments cause side-effects and the positives effects are only short-term. Recently, acupuncture has been widely used to treat geriatric problems, and one of the problems being addressed is constipation. Case: An 85-year-old female, with hip fractures, had episodes of being unable to defecate and had stomach pain that was persistent due to this constipation. She was admitted to the hospital for her fractures, where manual acupuncture was used to treat her constipation. Results: The therapy was effective for relieving the patient's stomach pain and constipation, and increased the patient's appetite as well as improving her QoL. Conclusions: Stomach pain in geriatric patients with constipation can lead to difficulty in sleeping, loss of appetite, and persistent pain in the stomach. Constipation can be assessed by using posterior anterior and oblique views of the abdominal radiographic projection. Numerous modalities, including pharmacologic therapy (sodium lauryl sulfoacetate enema and lactulose syrup), have been used to treat constipation-related pain. Recently, acupuncture has also been used to treat stomach pain in geriatric patients with constipation. Acupuncture was effective for relieving the current patient's pain and constipation and also improved her QoL.

A Randomized Controlled Trial on the Effects of Electromyographic Biofeedback on Quality of Life and Bowel Symptoms in Elderly Women With Dyssynergic Defecation

Dyssynergic defecation is a usual cause of chronic constipation in elderly women, with a negative impact on health-related quality of life. The present randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effects of behavioral treatment through electromyographic biofeedback (EMG-BF) on quality of life and bowel symptoms in elderly women with dyssynergic defecation. Twenty chronically constipated elderly women, due to dyssynergic defecation, were enrolled in the study. Outcome measures included weekly stool frequency, anismus index, severity of patient-reported chronic constipation symptoms (abdominal, rectal, and stool symptoms), and overall measure of quality of life. After 1 month of baseline, participants were randomly assigned to either EMG-BF group (n = 10) or control group (n = 10). Three months after treatment, female patients were once again assessed following the same procedure in baseline. One-way multivariate analysis of variance MANOVA revealed no significant differences between the groups before treatment in any of the measured dependent variables (Wilks's λ = 0.74; F_6,13 = 0.77; p = 0.61). Likewise, univariate analysis showed no differences between the groups, either in terms of age (F_1,18 = 0.96; p = 0.34) or mean disease duration (F_1,18 = 2.99; p = 0.11). Three months after treatment, MANOVA revealed statistically significant differences between the groups (Wilks's λ = 0.29; F_6,13 = 5.19; p < 0.01). These differences were significant in all outcome measures. EMG-BF produces significant improvements in bowel symptoms and health-related quality of life of elderly women with dyssynergic defecation.

Assessment of rectal feces storage condition by a point-of-care pocket-size ultrasound device for healthy adult subjects: A preliminary study

The aim of this study was to assess rectal feces storage condition by a pocket-size ultrasonography (PUS) in healthy adults so as to define normal rectal defecation desire. Participants were first assessed rectum by PUS imaging immediately after defecation desire (pre-defecation). Nurses checked the amount and quality of the participants' feces using King's Stool Chart and Bristol stool scale. Finally, PUS was performed for defecation with no defecation desire (post-defecation). Pre-defecation PUS detected high echo area in all patients. All of the post-defecation PUS did not detect high echo area (perfectly no recognizable high echo area in 54.5%, high echo line in 36.4%, and low echo of entire circumference in 9.1% of the patients). Average diameter of rectal crescent was 4.22 ± 0.8 cm. Bristol Stool Scale 1 or 2 (indicating hard stool) of pre-defecation PUS indicated high echo area and acoustic shadow in 100% of the patients. This study showed that healthy adult with defecation desire had high average rectal echo area of 4.0 cm in diameter. PUS may be able to define the rectum diameter for defecation desire of elderly people. PUS is capable of assessing fecal retention of the rectum for point-of-care examinations in home care.

Relative Risk of Adverse Events and Treatment Discontinuations Between Older and Non-Older Adults Treated with Antimuscarinics for Overactive Bladder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

INTRODUCTION

Overactive bladder (OAB) affects adults of all ages. The risk for medication-related adverse events (AEs) may differ between age groups, given age-related changes in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. No previous study has differentiated the risk of AEs between older and non-older adults with OAB.

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to assess the risk of AEs and treatment discontinuations between older and non-older adults with OAB initiated on an antimuscarinic.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE (PubMed interface), Embase, SCOPUS, and Cochrane Central Register for Controlled Trials in a previous analysis in February 2015 and repeated the search in August 2018, with no additional studies identified. Studies that delineated AEs or treatment discontinuations between the older and non-older (age <65 years) subjects were included.

RESULTS

Six studies that made nine comparisons between older and non-older subjects met the inclusion criteria. The AEs of dry mouth (46.7%), constipation (10.3%), and headache (7.7%) were most frequently reported. Older subjects were more likely to experience dry mouth (relative risk [RR] 1.09; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.00-1.19), constipation (RR 1.92; 95% CI 1.52-2.43), dizziness (RR 2.37; 95% CI 1.21-4.62), and urinary retention (RR 4.17; 95% CI 1.76-9.89) than were non-older subjects. Headache was less likely to occur in older subjects (RR 0.58; 95% CI 0.40-0.86). Treatment discontinuations due to AEs were more likely to occur in the older subjects (RR 1.59; 95% CI 1.20-2.11).

CONCLUSION

Treatment of OAB with antimuscarinics in the older population resulted in significantly higher rates of AEs, barring headache, when compared with non-older subjects.

Constipation and diarrhea during the menopause transition and early postmenopause: observations from the Seattle Midlife Women's Health Study

OBJECTIVE

To assess the relationship of constipation and diarrhea severity during the menopause transition (MT) with age, MT stage, reproductive biomarkers, stress-related biomarkers, and stress-related perceptions.

METHODS

From 1990 to 1992, women aged 35 to 55 years were recruited from the greater Seattle area; 291 of them consented to ongoing (1990-2013) annual data collection by daily menstrual calendar, health diary, and annual health questionnaire. A subset (n = 131) provided a first morning voided urine specimen (1997-2013). These were assayed for levels of E1G, follicle-stimulating hormone, testosterone, cortisol, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. Mixed-effects modeling was used to identify how changes in constipation and diarrhea severity over time related to age, MT stage, reproductive biomarkers, stress-related biomarkers, and stress-related perceptions.

RESULTS

In a univariate model, age, late reproductive (LR) stage, tension, and anxiety were all significantly and positively related to constipation severity, whereas cortisol was significantly and negatively associated. In a multivariate model, only tension and cortisol remained significant predictors of constipation severity (P < 0.05). In a univariate model, age, LR stage, and estrone glucuronide were significantly and negatively associated with diarrhea severity, whereas tension, anxiety, and perceived stress were significantly and positively related. In a multivariate model, only tension and age remained significant predictors of diarrhea severity.

CONCLUSIONS

Key reproductive hormones do not play a significant role in constipation or diarrhea severity in the MT. In contrast, stress perception, tension, anxiety, and cortisol do. These factors should be evaluated in further research involving constipation and diarrhea.

Physicochemical properties and laxative effects of polysaccharides from Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bge. in loperamide-induced rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

As a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bge. possesses the effects of nourishing yin, moistening dryness, clearing lungs and relieving fire. Simultaneously, it has been used to treat constipation for more than one thousand years in China. However, modern medical studies are limited and lacking on its therapeutic mechanism.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This current study was aimed to investigate the laxative activities and explore the potential mechanism of Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bge. polysaccharides (AABP) in loperamide-induced constipation rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The structure of AABP was determined by using infrared spectrum, high performance gel permeation chromatography (HPGPC), and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR), multitudinous methods were adopted to explore the underlining therapeutic mechanism of AABP in treating constipation, including enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), histopathological, immunohistochemistry and western blotting.

RESULTS

In the present study, the average molecular weight of AABP was determined as 1.11 × 10³ kDa. The primary monosaccharide compositions were analyzed including D-mannose, L-rhamnose, D-galacturonic acid, D-glucose, D-galactose and L-arabinose (1, 0.04, 0.53, 0.11, 0.33, 0.25, respectively) by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). AABP significantly increased the levels of gastrin (Gas), motilin (MTL), substance P (SP), 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), and decreased the NO content of loperamide-induced rats to ameliorate constipation in the rats. Whilst, AABP repaired the damaged colons by regulating PCNA and ICAM-1 protein expressions. Additionally, AABP up-regulated the levels of SCF, c-Kit, AQP3 and VIP as well as down-regulated the expressions of AQP8, AQP4 and PGE2.

CONCLUSION

The present findings suggested that AABP were the laxative active ingredients isolated from Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bge., which could treat constipation through regulating the gastrointestinal hormones and neurotransmitters to improve the intestinal motility and water metabolism.

Constipation in community-dwelling adults with intellectual disability

Individuals with intellectual disability can experience multifaceted physical, psychological, emotional health and wellbeing problems. Chronic constipation is one of the major health problems for this cohort of the population; it is linked with distress, discomfort, pain, faecal incontinence, anxiety, behavioural difficulties and severe gastrointestinal complications. A continence assessment process for constipation ensures that planning, implementation and evaluation strategies provide quality health outcomes for individuals and their families. Proactive treatment interventions range from increasing fluid intake, alterations in dietary intake, implementing toileting routine and medication management. Health promotion approaches need to be positively implemented for individuals with intellectual disability to promote a healthy lifestyle, improve nutritional intake, increase access to exercise programs and thus advance health, wellbeing and quality outcomes.

Clinical features and treatment options among Chinese adults with self-reported constipation: An internet-based survey

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate the clinical features, precipitating factors, bowel habits, bothersome symptoms and treatment strategies of individuals in China with self-reported constipation.

METHODS

An internet-based survey was conducted in China. The participants had self-reported chronic constipation (≥1 symptoms including straining, hard stools, time-consuming defecation, sensations of incomplete evacuation and anorectal blockage, using manual assistance, and fewer than three defecations per week, for over 6 months). Data on their sex, age and occupation, precipitating factors, bowel habit, main symptoms and treatment options were collected.

RESULTS

Overall, 6318 participants fulfilled the inclusion criteria for chronic constipation. More women (54.6%, n = 3450) than men reported constipation. The most common age group for constipation was 31 to 40 years (40.0%, n = 2520) and the most common occupation was office workers (43.6%, n = 2754). Disordered eating routines, consuming spicy food, and failure to defecate in time were the most common factors associated with constipation. Overall, 76.0% (n = 4804) participants did not defecate in the morning; 56.2% (n = 3548) spent 6 to 15 minutes in defecating. The most prevalent symptom was straining (39.4%, n = 2489). For preferred treatment options, 81.7% (n = 5160) selected changes in their lifestyle and diet, 51.1% (n = 3229) selected using traditional Chinese medicine, and 25.2% (n = 1590) selected using laxatives.

CONCLUSIONS

Constipation rates were higher in women, people aged 31 to 40 years old, and those working in offices. Having eating disorders, eating spicy food and withholding stools were the most common precipitating factors. Straining was the most prevalent symptom. Lifestyle changes were the most common action taken for managing constipation.

Examining constipation assessment and management of patients with advanced cancer receiving specialist palliative care: a multi-site retrospective case note review of clinical practice

Background

Constipation is a common symptom for patients receiving palliative care. Whilst international clinical guidelines are available on the clinical management of constipation for people with advanced cancer receiving specialist palliative care (SPC), the extent to which the guidelines are implemented in practice is unclear. This study aimed to examine clinical practices for the assessment and management of constipation for patients with advanced cancer within inpatient SPC settings.

Methods

A multi-site retrospective case-note review was conducted, consisting of 150 patient case-notes from three inpatient SPC units across the United Kingdom between August 2016 and May 2017. The variables selected for review were determined by the recommendations within the clinical guidelines. Descriptive statistics, cross tabulation, chi square, and bivariate correlations were used to examine clinical practices compared to policy guidelines for the assessment and management of constipation. Reporting was structured by the STROBE checklist for observational research (Additional File 2).

Results

A comprehensive assessment, including a full history and performing a physical exam, was recorded for 109 patients (73%), however, no standardised documentation was utilised. Assessment was nurse led, with variable involvement across sites of other members of the multidisciplinary team (MDT). Education on prevention was documented in 30 (20%) case-notes, and 53% recorded evidence of non-pharmacological intervention. Age, gender, and reason for admission did not impact on the likelihood of receiving a comprehensive assessment, education, or non-pharmacological intervention, however, significant differences were evident between sites. Pharmacological management was well developed and aligned to the guidelines however, 33% of patient case-notes recorded no information on the titration of laxatives. Twelve percent of patients experienced partial or complete bowel obstruction, and management strategies were variable.

Conclusions

Constipation management is driven by a pharmacological approach, with little evidence of the implementation of preventative and non-pharmacological strategies. The nurse plays a key coordinating role in assessment; however, involvement and roles of the wider MDT varies. Accurate recording of care is essential when examining clinical practice and identifying areas for improvement. Further education is needed to equip HCPs with the knowledge and skills to ensure consistency in assessment and implementation of appropriate non-pharmacological/ preventative strategies.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12904-019-0436-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

[Determining the Prevalence of Constipation and Relating Factors in Elderly People: A Nursing Home Study]

Amaç

Bu çalışma, huzurevinde kalan yaşlılarda Roma II konstipasyon tanılama kriterlerine göre konstipasyon görülme sıklığını ve ilişkili faktörleri belirlemek amacıyla yapılmıştır.

Yöntem

Kesitsel tipteki bu çalışma Ankara’da bir huzurevinde yaşayan ve araştırmaya dahil edilme kriterlerine uyan 160 yaşlı birey ile gerçekleştirilmiştir. Veriler tanıtıcı özellikler bilgi formu ve Roma II Konstipasyon Tanılama Kriterleri formu ile yüz yüze görüşülerek toplanmıştır. Verilerin analizinde tanımlayıcı istatistikler ile Ki-Kare testi kullanılmıştır.

Bulgular

Yaşlı bireylerin yaş ortalaması 78±8.1 (min: 65, max: 95) olup, %53.1’i erkektir. Yaşlı bireylerin %51.9’u Roma II konstipasyon tanılama kriterlerine göre konstipasyon sorunu yaşamaktadır. Roma II konstipasyon tanılama kriterleri incelendiğinde yaşlı bireylerin, %44.4’ünün defekasyon yaparken zorlanma/yoğun ıkınma yaşadığı, %29.4’ünün dışkı kıvamının sert olduğu, %53.8’inin yetersiz dışkılama hissi/tam boşalamama problemi olduğu, %30.2’sinin bağırsak hareketinin haftada 2 kez ve daha az olduğu belirlenmiştir. Düzenli fiziksel aktivite yapmayan, günlük 2 litreden az su tüketen ve huzurevinde kalma süresi 11 yılın üzerinde olan yaşlı bireylerde konstipasyon sorununun daha fazla olduğu belirlenmiştir (p<0.05).

Sonuç

Huzurevinde yaşayan yaşlı bireylerin yarısından biraz fazlasının konstipasyon sorunu yaşadığı belirlenmiştir. Yaşlı bireylerde konstipasyon ve risk faktörlerinin erken dönemde belirlenmesi, düzenli olarak egzersiz yapmalarının desteklenmesi önem taşımaktadır.

Clinical Efficacy and Safety Profile of Prucalopride in Chronic Idiopathic Constipation

Chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) can be defined as bowel movements that are difficult to pass, are not occurring frequently, or have incomplete evacuation during defecation. A high-fiber diet and laxatives are the commonly used treatments, but in many cases, they do not produce satisfactory results. The first line of treatment is osmotic laxatives. If there is no improvement, the second line is guanylate cyclase-C (GCC) agonists like linaclotide or prokinetic agents such as prucalopride. On December 14, 2018, the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) approved prucalopride for treating chronic idiopathic constipation. Prucalopride is a prokinetic agent which works at the 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 4 (5-HT4) as an agonist with greater receptor selectivity. Patients on prucalopride reported improved symptoms, quality of life and satisfaction. The most frequent adverse events were headaches and problems related to the gastrointestinal tract. Caution should be taken when using prucalopride in patients with impaired liver and renal function. In Canada, prucalopride has been approved for treatment of female patients with chronic idiopathic constipation who have failed therapy with at least two laxatives from different classes over a six-month period.

A review on squat-assist devices to aid elderly with lower limb difficulties in toileting to tackle constipation

Constipation is an important issue that has impact on quality of life and health expenses of the elderly. It may lead to many other gastrointestinal disorders like colon cancer, haemorrhoids, anal fissures and so on. Squatting is considered to be the natural, traditional and most widely followed posture for defecation and hence, it is one of the practical solutions for avoiding constipation. Musculoskeletal issues due to ageing and changes in lifestyle make it difficult for the elder population to follow squatting or semi-squatting posture for defecation. Developing assistive devices to overcome older people's difficulty to attain squatting or semi-squatting posture is one of the research areas which need to be explored further. This review covers various designs of such devices which will enable a user to attain 'semi-squatting' posture to defecate and also addresses various challenges and limitations to overcome.

Efficacy of Polydextrose Supplementation on Colonic Transit Time, Bowel Movements, and Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Adults: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial

The addition of fiber is one of the most important dietary means to relieve constipation through lifestyle modification. Polydextrose (PDX) has been reported in several studies to increase fecal bulk, soften stools, and increase the number of defecations. However, there are few studies on the effect of PDX on colonic transit time (CTT). Therefore, the aim of this study was to demonstrate the effect of PDX on CTT and other aspects of gastrointestinal function during two weeks (Day 1 to Day 14), preceded by a 2-week run-in period (Day -14 to Day -1). A total of 192 adults who were diagnosed with functional constipation per Rome III criteria were recruited for the study. Participants were randomized equally into 4 groups (12 g, 8 g, or 4 g of PDX or placebo per day). The primary endpoint was CTT, assessed using radio-opaque markers and abdominal X-rays on Day 0, the baseline; and Day 15, the end of the intervention. Secondary outcomes that were measured using inventories were the patient assessment of constipation symptoms and quality of life, bowel function index, relief of constipation, bowel movement frequency (BMF), stool consistency, degree of straining, and proportion of bowel movements. Ancillary parameters and harms were also evaluated. The recruited population was not sufficiently constipated (e.g., baseline values for CTT and BMF of 42 h and 8.7 BMF/week, respectively). Despite this limitation, our results demonstrated an increased number of bowel movements when supplemented with PDX at a dosage of 12 g per day for 2 weeks. This dosage also consistently improved the secondary outcomes that were measured using inventories at Day 15, compared with the baseline. No serious or significant adverse events were reported during the study.

Constipation in the elderly from Northern Sardinia is positively associated with depression, malnutrition and female gender

OBJECTIVES

Constipation is a common complaint in older adults. The rise in life expectancy may amplify the problem and increase social expenditure. We investigated the major risk factors associated with constipation in a large sample of elderly.

METHODS

Outpatients from Northern Sardinia attending a Geriatric Unit between 2001 and 2014 were enrolled. Demographic and anthropometric data, income, education and self-reported bowel function were collected. The presence of constipation was adjusted for cognitive status, assessed by the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) test; single and cumulative illness rating scale (CIRS); current or past symptomatic depression and anxiety measured by the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS); nutritional status, evaluated using the Mini-Nutritional Assessment (MNA); type and number of different medications used.

RESULTS

1328 elderly patients (mean age 77.7 ± 7.2 years) were enrolled. Constipation was present in 32.1%, more commonly in women (35.4% vs 28.3%) and increased with age. The multivariate analysis showed a significantly greater risk of constipation in patients with a risk of malnutrition (OR = 1.745, 95% CI: 1.043-2.022; p = .034), female gender (OR = 1.735, 95% CI: 1.068-2.820; p = .026) and depression (OR = 1.079, 95% CI: 1.022-1.140; p = .006). Other potential predisposing factors assessed such as MMSE, CIRS, body mass index, marital status, smoking habit, education, income and number of taken drugs did not show a statistically significant association. Aging was a risk for constipation also in patients free of medications.

CONCLUSIONS

Knowledge of risk factors associated with bowel alterations in elderly individuals may provide important clues for caregivers to prevent or reduce constipation.

Safety of Injectable HPβCD-Diclofenac in Older Patients with Acute Moderate-to-Severe Postoperative Pain: A Pooled Analysis of Three Phase III Trials

BACKGROUND

Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin-diclofenac (HPβCD-diclofenac) is an NSAID used to treat acute moderate-to-severe postoperative pain. This post hoc analysis investigated the safety of HPβCD-diclofenac in patients aged ≥ 65 years.

METHODS

Data from three phase III trials of HPβCD-diclofenac in adult patients with acute moderate-to-severe postoperative pain were pooled (NCT00448110, NCT00507026, and NCT00726388). Patients who received one or more dose of HPβCD-diclofenac or placebo were included and stratified according to age: < 65, 65-74, or ≥ 75 years. Numerical and categorical variables were compared across the groups using ANOVA and Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel tests, respectively. Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel relative risks compared with placebo were calculated, adjusted by study.

RESULTS

Overall, 1289 patients were included: 878, 282, and 129 in the < 65, 65-74, and ≥ 75-years groups, respectively. Overall incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) was similar in the three groups (p = 0.4360). Incidences of postoperative anemia (p < 0.0001), constipation (p = 0.0017), and hypotension (p = 0.0003) increased significantly across the age groups, whereas headache (p = 0.0008) and flatulence (p = 0.0118) decreased significantly. Relative risks for all System Organ Class categories and preferred terms investigated were similar among the groups and similar to placebo.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall incidence of TEAEs in patients aged 65-74 or ≥ 75 years was similar to patients aged < 65 years. The groups displayed similar relative risks for the most frequent TEAEs, which were all similar to placebo. The TEAE profiles of the groups showed differences, all of which may be anticipated due to age-related differences in susceptibility and the types of surgery most commonly performed in each group. CLINICALTRIALS.

GOV IDENTIFIERS

NCT00448110, NCT00507026, and NCT00726388.

Time trends in the prevalence of cancer and non-cancer diseases among older U.S. adults: Medicare-based analysis

Longer lifespan is accompanied by a larger number of chronic diseases among older adults. Because of a growing proportion of older adults in the U.S., this brings the problem of age-related morbidity to the forefront as a major contributor to rising medical expenditures. We evaluated 15-year time trends (from 1998 to 2013) in the prevalence of 48 acute and chronic non-cancer diseases and cancers in older U.S. adults aged 65+ and estimated the annual percentage changes of these prevalence trends using SEER-Medicare and HRS-Medicare data. We found that age-adjusted prevalence of cancers of kidney, pancreas, and melanoma, as well as diabetes, renal disease, limb fracture, depression, anemia, weight deficiency, dementia/Alzheimer's disease, drug/medications abuse and several other diseases/conditions increased over time. Conversely, prevalence of myocardial infarction, heart failure, cardiomyopathy, pneumonia/influenza, peptic ulcer, and gastrointestinal bleeding, among others, decreased over time. There are also diseases whose prevalence did not change substantially over time, e.g., a group of fast progressing cancers and rheumatoid arthritis. Analysis of trends of multiple diseases performed simultaneously within one study design with focus on the same time interval and the same population for all diseases allowed us to provide insight into the epidemiology of these conditions and identify the most alarming and/or unexpected trends and trade-offs. The obtained results can be used for health expenditures planning for growing sector of older adults in the U.S.

Expert consensus on the assessment and treatment of chronic constipation in the elderly

It is of significant importance to scientifically assess and efficiently address chronic constipation in the elderly population. Therefore, organizing some domestic experts of geriatrics and gastroenterology, we have formulated this consensus to reference for clinical staff.

The Mexican consensus on chronic constipation

INTRODUCTION

Significant advances have been made in the knowledge and understanding of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of chronic constipation, since the publication of the 2011 guidelines on chronic constipation diagnosis and treatment in Mexico from the Asociación Mexicana de Gastroenterología.

AIMS

To present a consensus review of the current state of knowledge about chronic constipation, providing updated information and integrating the new scientific evidence.

METHODS

Three general coordinators reviewed the literature published within the time frame of January 2011 and January 2017. From that information, 62 initial statements were formulated and then sent to 12 national experts for their revision. The statements were voted upon, using the Delphi system in 3 voting rounds (2 electronic and one face-to-face). The statements were classified through the GRADE system and those that reached agreement >75% were included in the consensus.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

The present consensus is made up of 42 final statements that provide updated knowledge, supplementing the information that had not been included in the previous guidelines. The strength of recommendation and quality (level) of evidence were established for each statement. The current definitions of chronic constipation, functional constipation, and opioid-induced constipation are given, and diagnostic strategies based on the available diagnostic methods are described. The consensus treatment recommendations were established from evidence on the roles of diet and exercise, fiber, laxatives, new drugs (such as prucalopride, lubiprostone, linaclotide, plecanatide), biofeedback therapy, and surgery.

Stepped-wedge randomised trial of laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy in adults with chronic constipation: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Background

Laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy (LVMR) is an established treatment for external full-thickness rectal prolapse. However, its clinical efficacy in patients with internal prolapse is uncertain due to the lack of high-quality evidence.

Methods

An individual level, stepped-wedge randomised trial has been designed to allow observer-blinded data comparisons between patients awaiting LVMR with those who have undergone surgery. Adults with symptomatic internal rectal prolapse, unresponsive to prior conservative management, will be eligible to participate. They will be randomised to three arms with different delays before surgery (0, 12 and 24 weeks). Efficacy outcome data will be collected at equally stepped time points (12, 24, 36 and 48 weeks). The primary objective is to determine clinical efficacy of LVMR compared to controls with reduction in the Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life (PAC-QOL) at 24 weeks serving as the primary outcome. Secondary objectives are to determine: (1) the clinical effectiveness of LVMR to 48 weeks to a maximum of 72 weeks; (2) pre-operative determinants of outcome; (3) relevant health economics for LVMR; (4) qualitative evaluation of patient and health professional experience of LVMR and (5) 30-day morbidity and mortality rates.

Discussion

An individual-level, stepped-wedge, randomised trial serves the purpose of providing an untreated comparison for the active treatment group, while at the same time allowing the waiting-listed participants an opportunity to obtain the intervention at a later date. In keeping with the basic ethical tenets of this design, the average waiting time for LVMR (12 weeks) will be shorter than that for routine services (24 weeks).

Trial registration

ISRCTN registry, ISRCTN11747152. Registered on 30 September 2015. The trial was prospectively registered (first patient enrolled on 21 March 2016).

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13063-018-2456-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Side-to-Side Ileosigmoidostomy Shunting Surgery for the Treatment of Elderly Patients With Chronic Constipation

Constipation is a digestive disorder that often occurs in the elderly; its main cause is bowel motility disorder. Treatments for patients with chronic constipation include pharmacotherapy, diet changes, and surgery if other therapies do not offer satisfactory results. We describe 4 patients, 2 men (70 and 65 years old) and 2 women (75 and 66 years old), who were diagnosed with chronic constipation (slow transit constipation) and treated with conventional therapy, but did not improve. For that reason, side-to-side ileosigmoidostomy shunting surgery was performed. After the surgery, the average time until normal defecation was 16 days, and the defecation frequency was 3 to 4 times a day with no need for a laxative. No patient had a recurrence of constipation. Based on these results, side-to-side ileosigmoidostomy shunting surgery is expected to restore digestive function and can be considered as an alternative therapy for elderly patients with chronic constipation.

Analysis of Nausea in Clinical Studies of Lubiprostone for the Treatment of Constipation Disorders

BACKGROUND

Lubiprostone is a ClC-2 chloride channel activator approved for the treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) and opioid-induced constipation (OIC) in adults and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) in women. Lubiprostone is generally well tolerated, with nausea being the most common adverse event.

AIMS

To characterize nausea with lubiprostone using pooled results from clinical studies in patients with CIC, OIC, or IBS-C.

METHODS

Data from three 3- and 4-week placebo-controlled studies and three long-term open-label studies were pooled for the CIC analysis. The OIC and IBS-C analyses each used pooled data from three 12-week placebo-controlled studies and one 36-week open-label extension study.

RESULTS

The populations included the following numbers of patients: CIC, 316 (placebo) and 1113 (lubiprostone 24 mcg twice daily [BID]); OIC, 652 (placebo) and 889 (lubiprostone 24 mcg BID); and IBS-C, 435 (placebo) and 1011 (lubiprostone 8 mcg BID). The incidence of nausea in lubiprostone-treated patients ranged from 11.4 to 31.1%, with the highest incidence in patients with CIC. Among patients with any nausea, most reported only mild or moderate severity (96.5-99.1% across indications) and only one event (83.6-88.7%); most events occurred within the first 5 days of treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Nausea was the most common adverse event following the treatment with lubiprostone. Event rates varied by indication and dose, and the majority of nausea adverse events were mild to moderate in severity. Nausea events predominantly occurred early in the treatment period in all of the pooled study populations.

Intractable Constipation in the Elderly

OPINION STATEMENT

Chronic constipation is a common gastrointestinal disorder disproportionately affecting the elderly. Immobility, polypharmacy, and physiologic changes contribute to its increased prevalence in this population. Unidentified and undertreated constipation leads to a significant negative impact on quality of life and an increase in healthcare spending. Careful physical examination and exploration of the clinical history can unmask primary and secondary forms of constipation, guiding diagnostic and therapeutic considerations. Non-pharmacologic treatment options include bowel training and biofeedback as well as the addition of fiber. Laxatives are safe and can be used long term; thus, they remain the mainstay of therapy. Newer agents with specific physiologic targets have proven to be effective in adults with chronic constipation, but data is lacking for safety profile in the elderly. Consideration for surgery in medically refractory cases should be entertained, while use of neuromodulation is not ready for prime time. This is a review of the currently available treatment options for chronic constipation in adults and specifically tailored towards the elderly.

l-Ornithine stimulates growth hormone release in a manner dependent on the ghrelin system

We found that intraduodenal administration of l-ornithine (l-Orn) stimulates growth hormone (GH) secretion in Wistar rats, and then investigated its mechanism. GH-releasing activity after intraduodenal administration of l-Orn was blocked by [d-Lys³]-GHRP-6, an antagonist of the ghrelin receptor; however, l-Orn (100 μM) has no affinity for the ghrelin receptor, suggesting that the GH-releasing activity of l-Orn is mediated via ghrelin release and activation of the ghrelin receptor. Intraduodenally administered l-Orn increased ghrelin mRNA expression in the duodenum but not in the stomach or hypothalamus. In addition, l-Orn-induced GH-releasing activity was inhibited by propranolol, an antagonist of β-adrenergic receptor, which is known to be coupled to ghrelin release. In conclusion, intraduodenally administered l-Orn stimulates GH secretion through the sympathetic nervous and ghrelin systems.

The effect of probiotics as a treatment for constipation in elderly people: A systematic review

PURPOSE

Treating constipation in elderly people remains a challenge; the administration of probiotics may be a valid therapy for this problem as an alternative to traditional drug-based treatments. The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the efficiency of probiotics in treating constipation in elderly people.

METHODS

Articles related to this topic and published, without any time limitations, in the Medline, Embase, Scopus, Lilacs, or Cochrane databases were systematically reviewed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The primary search terms were 'constipation' and 'probiotics'. The main inclusion criteria were: 1) the article was original and the whole text was published in English or Spanish and 2) included the primary search terms in the title, summary, or body text; 3) the studies had to have included 60 or more participants defined as 'elderly' and 4) have specifically evaluated the effect of the administration of probiotics.

RESULTS

Of the 475 articles consulted, 9 met the inclusion criteria. Among the selected studies, there were four randomised and placebo-controlled trials and the remaining five reports were observational. Overall, our analysis of the randomised and placebo-controlled trials suggests that administration of probiotics significantly improved constipation in elderly individuals by 10-40% compared to placebo controls in which no probiotic was administered. The strain of bacteria most commonly tested was Bifidobacterium longum. However, caution is needed when interpreting these reports because of the heterogeneity of the original study designs, populations, and the risk of bias. Therefore, further placebo-controlled trials are necessary to determine the most efficient strains, doses, and the optimal treatment duration.