Laparoscopic-assisted subtotal colectomy combined with modified Duhamel procedure for mixed constipation.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effects of subtotal colectomy combined with the modified Duhamel procedure on mixed constipation.

METHODS

A total of 16 female patients with mixed constipation were enrolled and underwent subtotal colectomy combined with the modified Duhamel procedure under laparoscopy from April 2010 to April 2012. Before surgery, physical examinations such as the gastrointestinal transit test, barium enema, and defecography were performed for all the patients. After surgical treatment, 2-year follow-up was performed using questionnaires to assess the effect of treatment.

RESULTS

All 16 cases were treated successfully, with a mean operation time of 230 minutes (range, 180-290 minutes). No intraoperative or postoperative complications were found, and no deaths occurred. Constipation and relevant symptoms were relieved, and all patients were satisfied with their quality of life. The gastrointestinal quality-of-life score was significantly increased 6 months postoperatively (mean, 102) compared with preoperatively (mean, 75).

CONCLUSION

Subtotal colectomy combined with the modified Duhamel procedure under laparoscopy is effective and safe for the treatment of mixed constipation.