Constipation articles from across Nature Portfolio

Hirschsprung disease (HSCR) is a rare congenital disorder characterized by absence of ganglion cells in the bowel, leading to constipation, abdominal distension and intestinal obstruction. This Primer summarizes the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis and management of HSCR, and discusses quality of life of patients as well as novel avenues for research.

Colectomy is rightly viewed as a last resort in selected patients with slow-transit constipation. A new study presents US national data that raises new concerns regarding the outcome of this procedure and perhaps questions whether it should be offered at all.