ObjectiveTo evaluate the functional outcomes and quality of life in patients with surgery for slow transit constipation (STC).MethodsFrom March 2013 to July 2017, 29 patients undergoing total or subtotal colectomy for STC in our department were analyzed prospectively. Their preoperative and postoperative 1-year follow-up details were analyzed. Evacuation function of all patients was assessed by bowel movements, abdominal pain, bloating, straining, laxative, enema use and the Wexner constipation scales. Quality of life was evaluated by the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI) and the short-form (SF)-36 survey.ResultsA high number of patients (93.1%, 27/29) in STC stated that surgery received benefits to their health. Compared with that before operation, the number of bowel movements per week during a 1-year follow-up increased significantly (31.6±19.9 vs. 1.21±0.6, P<0.05). Significant trends toward improvement of bloating, straining, laxative and enema use were noted 1-year following surgery (P<0.05). The Wexner constipation scales scores during a 1-year follow-up decreased significantly (5.69±3.4 vs. 20.34±0.6, P<0.05). The GIQLI scores during a 1-year follow-up increased significantly (120.7±20.4 vs. 78.6±17.3, P<0.05). Moreover, results of SF-36 showed significant improvements in 7 spheres (role physical, role emotional, physical pain, vitality, mental health, social function and general health) during a 1-year follow-up compared with those before operation (P<0.05).ConclusionTotal or subtotal colectomy for STC did not only alleviate constipation symptoms dramatically, but also received significant improvements in the patients’ quality of life.