Prognosis

Medical therapy is fairly effective in relieving symptoms of constipation.[119] In well-designed randomized controlled trials, drug therapy has been shown to have a therapeutic gain of 10% to 30% over placebo.[70][78]​​​​​​[120][121]​[122]​ Biofeedback therapy is effective in 60% to 80% of patients with dyssynergia.[95]​​[97]​​[98]​​[123] Likewise, surgery can improve symptoms in about 50% to 65% of patients with refractory constipation.[103]​​[104]​​[124]

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