When Is Surgery Needed for Chronic Constipation?
Chronic constipation is a common problem affecting people of all ages. Most patients improve with diet changes, medicines, hydration, and lifestyle corrections. But in some cases, constipation becomes severe, persistent, and difficult to manage with routine treatment. According to Dr. Samrat Jankar, one of Pune’s leading Gastroenterologists, Laparoscopic Surgeons, and Colorectal Surgeons, surgery is rarely the first option, but it becomes necessary when constipation affects quality of life or is caused by structural or functional problems inside the intestine. This complete patient guide explains when surgery is needed for chronic constipation, what tests are done, and what treatment options are available.
What is Chronic Constipation?
Constipation is considered “chronic” when it lasts for more than 3 months and includes:
- Hard, dry stools
- Straining during bowel movements
- Less than 3 bowel movements per week
- Feeling of incomplete evacuation
- Bloating and abdominal discomfort
- Need for regular laxatives
If these symptoms continue despite treatment, you should consult a specialist like Dr. Samrat Jankar to know the underlying cause.
Common Causes of Severe or Chronic Constipation:
Chronic constipation can occur due to:
- Slow-transit colon (sluggish bowel movement)
- Obstructed defecation syndrome (ODS)
- Rectocele (bulging of the rectum into the vagina in women)
- Rectal prolapse
- Pelvic floor dysfunction
- Strictures in the intestine
- History of surgeries
- Neurological problems
- Colonic inertia
These conditions may require advanced evaluation or surgical correction.
When Is Surgery Needed for Chronic Constipation?
Surgery is considered only when:
- Medicines and Lifestyle Changes Fail: If the patient continues to suffer despite Dietary fibre, Hydration, Low-FODMAP diet, Probiotics, Exercise, & Prescription medicines Then surgical evaluation may be needed.
- Structural Problems Are Detected: Conditions like rectocele, rectal prolapse, strictures, or narrowing of the intestine often cannot be corrected with medicines. Surgery becomes essential to restore normal bowel function.
- Pelvic Floor Disorders: If the pelvic muscles do not relax properly during stool passage, patients may require:
- Biofeedback therapy
- Pelvic floor correction procedures (if severe)
- Severe Slow-Transit Constipation (Colonic Inertia): This condition occurs when the colon moves extremely slowly. If confirmed through tests, surgery may be the only long-term solution.
- Recurrent Rectal Prolapse
Rectal prolapse causes:
- Difficulty passing stools
- Mucus leakage
- Pain and discomfort
- Worsening constipation
Surgical fixation is the most effective treatment.
Surgical Options for Chronic Constipation:
- Laparoscopic Colectomy: Used for severe slow-transit constipation
- Laparoscopic Rectopexy: Used to treat rectal prolapse.
- Stricture Correction / Resection: Used when the intestine is narrowed or blocked.
- Pelvic Floor Surgery: For severe pelvic muscle dysfunction when conservative therapy fails.
All surgeries performed by Dr. Samrat Jankar are minimally invasive, ensuring:
- Less pain
- Faster recovery
- Smaller cuts
- Early return to normal activities
When Should You Visit Dr. Samrat Jankar?
You should consult him if you experience any of the following:
- Constipation lasting more than 4 weeks
- Severe straining
- Blood in stools
- Large rectocele or rectal prolapse
- Repeated need for laxatives
- Feeling of blockage in rectum
- Painful bowel movements
- Difficulty despite diet and medicines
Early diagnosis leads to better outcomes and helps avoid complications.
Conclusion:
Surgery for chronic constipation is needed only in select cases where medical treatment fails or when structural issues block normal bowel movement. With proper evaluation and advanced laparoscopic techniques, patients can achieve long-term relief and an improved quality of life. Dr. Samrat Jankar, one of the most trusted Colorectal & GI Surgeons in Pune, ensures accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment for every patient.