Constipation may simply be a symptom that signi?es an obsessive desire to defecate with regular frequency. The authors of this text, however, have demonstrated admirably that this nebulous condition often has a multifaceted etiology. I enjoyed reading this exc- lent text, which covers the gamut of topics related to the etiology, assessment, investi- tion, and management of constipation. The editors have recruited an international team of exemplary ability and have amassed a very comprehensive and consistent text. The chapters merge imperceptibly with minimal repetition. Novel treatments and...

Constipation may simply be a symptom that signi?es an obsessive desire to defecate with regular frequency. The authors of this text, however, have demonstrated admirably that this nebulous condition often has a multifaceted etiology. I enjoyed reading this exc- lent text, which covers the gamut of topics related to the etiology, assessment, investi- tion, and management of constipation. The editors have recruited an international team of exemplary ability and have amassed a very comprehensive and consistent text. The chapters merge imperceptibly with minimal repetition. Novel treatments and...