Functional defaecation disorders

Definition

Functional defaecation disorders are characterised by paradoxical contraction or inadequate relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles during attempted defaecation (dyssynergic defaecation) or inadequate propulsive forces during attempted defaecation (inadequate defaecatory propulsion). The patients must satisfy diagnostic criteria for functional constipation.

Exclusions

• Encopresis
• Encopresis with constipation or overflow incontinence
• Encopresis without constipation or overflow incontinence

Inclusions

• Dyssynergic defaecation
• Inadequate defaecatory propulsion

Index Terms