A Multidisciplinary Approach to Obstructed Defecation Syndrome

Obstructed Defecation Syndrome (ODS) is a complex medical disorder mainly due to a combination of mechanical and functional issues in the anorectal area. Patients suffering from ODS experience severe discomfort with hard stool, straining, incomplete evacuation, bloating, and psychological stress, which profoundly affects their quality of life. This syndrome involves various contributing factors, including structural anomalies such as rectocele and intussusception, as well as functional disorders like pelvic floor dyssynergia. Although recent research has shed some light on these components, the accurate diagnosis and effective management of ODS remains a challenge. There is a clear need for more in-depth research to better understand and address these complexities. This Research Topic aims to advance the understanding of ODS by exploring its underlying causes, improving diagnostic accuracy, and evaluating the effectiveness of current and new treatment modalities. The objectives here are several: to clarify the pathophysiological underpinnings of ODS, develop and validate precise diagnostic procedures, and assess the impact of various therapeutic approaches on patient health and satisfaction.

To expand our current understanding of Obstructed Defecation Syndrome, we welcome contributions that investigate a wide range of related topics. We are particularly interested in, but not limited to:

• In-depth analysis of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors that may precipitate ODS;
• Development of cutting-edge diagnostic imaging tools for better identification and understanding of ODS;
• Comparative evaluations of surgical and non-surgical treatment options;
• Exploration of interdisciplinary methods combining clinical, psychological, and surgical insights to enhance patient outcomes;
• Innovative therapeutic approaches, including novel surgical methods, enhanced biofeedback techniques, and dietary interventions.

Through this collaborative research initiative, we look to break new ground in the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of ODS, attempting to elevate patient care standards and significantly improve the lives of those suffering from this distressing condition.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Clinical Trial
• Curriculum, Instruction, and Pedagogy
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Clinical Trial
• Curriculum, Instruction, and Pedagogy
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Study Protocol
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: Obstructed Defecation Syndrome (ODS), Anorectal dysfunction, Anorectal surgery, Rectocele repair, Minimally invasive surgery, Novel surgical techniques, Pelvic floor dyssynergia, Pathophysiology, Diagnostic imaging

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.