gastroenterology Constipation & ODS

Chronic Constipation & ODS Treatment

Comprehensive evaluation and management of chronic constipation and Obstructed Defecation Syndrome. Most patients improve with non-operative care; STARR procedure for structural causes.

stethoscope Expert Diagnosis
medication Non-Operative Options
surgical STARR Procedure
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event_available Ongoing OPD Care

Understanding Chronic Constipation & ODS

Chronic constipation is one of the most common reasons patients visit the OPD. While many cases are functional — related to diet, hydration, and lifestyle — some patients have an underlying structural cause known as Obstructed Defecation Syndrome (ODS).

ODS occurs due to conditions like rectocele, rectal intussusception, or pelvic floor dysfunction, where the anatomy or muscle coordination prevents normal evacuation. Dr. Krishnani provides thorough evaluation to distinguish functional from structural constipation, ensuring each patient gets the right treatment — most are managed non-operatively, while the STARR procedure is offered for confirmed structural ODS.

Common Symptoms:

  • Excessive straining during bowel movements
  • Feeling of incomplete evacuation
  • Bloating and abdominal discomfort
  • Dependence on laxatives or manual assistance
  • Infrequent stools (fewer than 3 per week)
  • Hard, lumpy stools requiring prolonged toilet time
80%+ Non-Surgical Relief
STARR For Structural ODS
IMMAST Certified Training

Treatment Options

nutrition

Lifestyle & Dietary Management

High-fibre diet, adequate hydration, regular exercise, and bowel habit training — the first line of treatment for most patients.

medication

Medical Therapy

Osmotic laxatives, stool softeners, and prokinetic agents prescribed based on the type and severity of constipation.

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Biofeedback Therapy

Pelvic floor retraining for patients with dyssynergic defecation — helps coordinate muscles for effective evacuation.

surgical

STARR Procedure

Stapled Trans-Anal Rectal Resection for structural ODS (rectocele, intussusception). No external incisions, faster recovery.

Non-Operative vs STARR Procedure

Aspect Non-Operative STARR Procedure
Best For Functional constipation Structural ODS (rectocele, intussusception)
Approach Diet, medication, biofeedback Stapled trans-anal resection
Recovery Gradual improvement over weeks 5-7 days to normal activities
Setting OPD-based care Day-care / short hospital stay
Incisions None No external incisions

Frequently Asked Questions

ODS is a condition where patients have difficulty evacuating stool despite feeling the urge. It is often caused by structural issues like rectocele, rectal intussusception, or pelvic floor dysfunction — not just dietary habits. Proper evaluation is essential to identify the underlying cause.

Yes, the majority of chronic constipation cases respond well to non-operative management — dietary modifications, adequate hydration, fibre supplementation, medical therapy, and biofeedback. Surgery is reserved for structural causes (like ODS) that fail conservative treatment.

STARR (Stapled Trans-Anal Rectal Resection) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure for Obstructed Defecation Syndrome. It corrects structural problems like rectocele and rectal intussusception by removing excess rectal tissue using a circular stapler — no external incisions, less pain, and faster recovery.

Consult a specialist if you experience persistent constipation lasting more than 3 months, excessive straining, feeling of incomplete evacuation, dependence on laxatives, bleeding during bowel movements, or if dietary changes and over-the-counter remedies have not helped.

Most patients resume normal activities within 5-7 days. Complete recovery typically takes 2-4 weeks. Post-operative care includes dietary guidance and follow-up visits to ensure smooth healing and improved bowel function.

Struggling with Chronic Constipation?

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About the Doctor

Dr. Nikhil Krishnani
Dr. Nikhil Krishnani MBBS, MS, FALS General, Laparoscopic & Colorectal Surgeon
school
MBBS GMERS Medical College, Valsad
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MS (General Surgery) GMC, Surat
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FALS Zen Hospital, Mumbai
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IMMAST Certified Minimal Invasive Proctology
500+ Surgeries
6 Locations
99% Success
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Common Questions

The easiest way is via WhatsApp at 7016888309. You can also visit any of our 6 OPD locations during consultation hours. Walk-ins are welcome, but prior appointment is recommended for minimal waiting time.

Dr. Krishnani consults at 6 locations across Surat:
Aditya Hospital (Parvat Patiya): 09:30 AM to 11:30 AM
Gurunanak Hospital (Bhatar): 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
United Green Hospital (Adajan): 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Arham Hospital (Adajan): 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Unique Hospital (Visiting Hospital): By Appointment
Mahavideh Dham (Visiting Hospital): By Appointment

Yes, we work with most major health insurance providers. Please bring your insurance card during consultation, and our team will help you understand your coverage and process the necessary paperwork.

Please bring any previous medical reports, prescriptions, test results, and your insurance card. Arriving 10 minutes early is recommended to complete any paperwork. You are welcome to bring a family member for support.

Yes, same-day appointments are often available depending on the schedule. WhatsApp us at 7016888309 to check availability. Walk-ins are also welcome during OPD hours.

Yes, post-operative follow-up consultations are included. Dr. Krishnani is also available via WhatsApp for any concerns during your recovery. Direct doctor access ensures you get timely guidance when you need it.

Laser surgery is significantly less painful than traditional methods. The procedure is done under anesthesia, and patients typically experience minimal discomfort. Most patients go home the same day and return to normal activities within 2-3 days.

Recovery varies by procedure. Laser piles surgery: 2-3 days. Fissure surgery: 4-6 weeks for complete healing. Fistula surgery: depends on complexity. Laparoscopic hernia repair: 1-2 weeks. Dr. Krishnani provides specific recovery guidelines for each patient.

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