Prognosis

Medical therapy is fairly effective in relieving symptoms of constipation.[117] In well-designed randomised controlled trials, drug therapy has been shown to have a therapeutic gain of 10% to 30% over placebo.[67][75]​​​[118]​​[119][120]​ Biofeedback therapy is effective in 60% to 80% of patients with dyssynergia.[93][96]​​​​[95]​​[121]​ Likewise, surgery can improve symptoms in about 50% to 65% of patients with refractory constipation.[100]​​[101]​​[122]

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