A clinical pathway for integrative medicine in the treatment of functional constipation in Hong Kong, China

Dong Jue Wei, Hui Juan Li, Zi Pan Lyu, Ai Ping Lyu, Zhao Xiang Bian*, Linda LD Zhong*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalJournal articlepeer-review

Abstract

Objective: Functional constipation (FC) is a common intestinal disease worldwide. Despite the presence of criteria such as Roman IV, there is no standardized diagnosis and treatment algorithm in Hong Kong that combines both Western and Chinese medicine approaches. This study integrates current effective and safe diagnosis and treatment methods for FC and provides a clear and scientific pathway for clinical professionals and patients.

Methods: A systematic search of the PubMed, Cochrane Library, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases was performed from their inception to June 30th, 2022, collecting the current evidence about the efficacious integrative management for FC. We organized a meeting of professionals in fields relevant to treatment and management of FC to develop a consensus agreement on clinical pathway process.

Results: We developed a clinical pathway for the treatment of FC based on the most recent published guidelines and consultation with experts. This pathway includes a hierarchy of recommendations for every step of the clinical process, including clinical intake, diagnostic examination, recommended labs, diagnostic flowchart, and guidance for selection of therapeutic drugs.

Conclusion: This pathway establishes clinical standards for the diagnosis and treatment of FC using Chinese medicine and Western medicine; it will help to provide high-quality medical services in Hong Kong for patients with FC.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)550-560
Number of pages11
JournalJournal of integrative medicine
Volume21
Issue number6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Nov 2023

Scopus Subject Areas

  • Complementary and alternative medicine

User-Defined Keywords

  • Clinical pathway
  • Functional constipation
  • Hong Kong
  • Integrative medicine

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'A clinical pathway for integrative medicine in the treatment of functional constipation in Hong Kong, China'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this