Chronic constipation in children

Sacral nerve stimulation leads to long-term improvement in fecal incontinence and quality of life for children with functional and organic defecation disorders

BACKGROUND

Our objective was to evaluate long-term outcomes of sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) for children with functional and organic defecation disorders.

METHODS

We performed a prospective study of children <21 years of age who started SNS treatment between 2012 and 2018. We recorded demographics, medical history, and diagnostic testing. We obtained measures of symptom severity and quality of life at baseline and follow up at 1, 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, and ≥60 months. Successful response was defined as bowel movements >2 times/week and fecal incontinence (FI) <1 time/week. Families were contacted to administer the Glasgow Children's Benefit Inventory and to evaluate patient satisfaction.

KEY RESULTS

We included 65 patients (59% female, median age at SNS 14 years, range 9-21) with median follow-up of 32 months. Thirty patients had functional constipation (FC), 15 had non-retentive FI (NRFI), and 16 had an anorectal malformation (ARM). The percentage with FI <1 time/week improved from 30% at baseline to 64% at 1 year (p < 0.001) and 77% at most recent follow-up (p < 0.001). Patients with FC, NRFI, and ARM had sustained improvement in FI (p = 0.02, p < 0.001, p = 0.02). Patients also reported fewer hard stools (p = 0.001). Bowel movement frequency did not improve after SNS. At most recent follow-up, 77% of patients with a functional disorder and 50% with an organic disorder had responded (p = 0.03). Nearly all families reported benefit.

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

SNS led to sustained improvement in FI regardless of underlying etiology, but children with functional disorders were more likely to respond than those with organic disorders.

Frequency of Functional Constipation in Lebanese Children: A Cross-Sectional Study Based on Parental Reporting

Aim: To determine the frequency and possible associated dietary and environmental factors of functional constipation (FC) among children in Lebanon followed at a single pediatric health system. Method: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in all pediatrics clinics at the American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC). Children aged 2-7 years presenting for a well-child visit were recruited. Data relating to the child's bowel habits and other history items were obtained from parental questionnaires. Results: The mean age of the 172 recruited participants was 4.94 years with 56.4% being males. FC was present in 32.6% of the participants. Although there was no difference in the frequency of FC based on age and gender, the peak frequency of FC was at 5 years. The daily frequency of withholding stools was 64.3%, and 46.6% of the children with FC always experienced straining while stooling for the past 2 months. Decreased physical activity and diet were not significantly associated with FC. Conclusion: The present study shows that 32.6% of children aged 2-7 years in Lebanon suffer from constipation while only 51.7% of the recruited children's physicians inquire about the child's bowel movement during the well check visit. These numbers highlight the need to raise more awareness among pediatricians on the need to screen for constipation during clinic visits as a standard of care practice.

Scoring system to evaluate meaningful fecal impaction in patients with lower urinary tract dysfunction with simple radiography (KUB)

PURPOSE

The management of bowel bladder disorder (BBD) has only been indicated for subjective constipation without objective evidence. We attempted to highlight the radiological findings in patients with BBD and construct a scoring system to identify patients with BBD prior to treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-five patients with lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) received polyethylene glycol for 2 months before bladder medication for LUTD. Based on partial response to LUTD following treatment, we divided the patients into LUTD-fecal impaction (FI) and LUTD not attributed to FI (LUTD-NFI) groups. Pre/post-treatment kidney, ureter, and bladder (KUB) were compared with respect to several radiographic parameters. Items with significant changes after treatment were included in the scoring system. The accuracy and inter-rater agreement were also evaluated.

RESULTS

Cecal dilation, descending colon dilation, fecal quality, and overall haziness were found to undergo significant changes after laxative treatment. We assigned 0 to 2 points for each item, with a total score of 8. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed a cutoff value of 5 between LUTD-FI and LUTD-NFI, with 79% sensitivity and 88% specificity. The scoring system was instructed to six doctors who were unaware of it and was then tested on previous patients, which showed a substantial concordance rate (κ=0.79, p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Fecal scoring system based on KUB was beneficial in identifying children with LUTD attributed to FI. This may provide an opportunity to obtain objective FI data as an alternative to subjective assessment of constipation.

Radiologically supervised bowel management program outcome in patients with chronic idiopathic constipation

PURPOSE

This study aimed to analyze our radiologically supervised bowel management program (RS-BMP) outcomes in patients with chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC).

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted. We included all patients with CIC who participated in our RS-BMP at Children´s Hospital Colorado from July 2016 to October 2022.

RESULTS

Eighty patients were included. The average time with constipation was 5.6 years. Before our RS-BMP, 95% had received non-radiologically supervised treatments, and 71% had attempted two or more treatments. Overall, 90% had tried Polyethylene Glycol and 43% Senna. Nine patients had a history of Botox injections. Five underwent anterograde continence procedure, and one a sigmoidectomy. Behavioral disorders (BD) were found in 23%. At the end of the RS-BMP, 96% of patients had successful outcomes, 73% were on Senna, and 27% were on enemas. Megarectum was detected in 93% of patients with successful outcomes and 100% with unsuccessful outcomes (p = 0.210). Of the patients with BD, 89% had successful outcomes, and 11% had unsuccessful.

CONCLUSION

Our RS-BMP has been proven to be effective in treating CIC. The radiologically supervised use of Senna and enemas was the appropriate treatment in 96% of the patients. BD and megarectum were associated with unsuccessful outcomes.

Defecation Habits in Preschoolers Are Associated with Physical Activity: A Cross-Sectional and Isotemporal Substitution Analysis

There is a lack of research on the relationship between defecation habits (DF) and physical activity (PA) in preschoolers. This study aimed to clarify the relationship between sedentary behaviour (SB), PA time, and DF in preschoolers and to estimate the effect of DF replacement in an isotemporal substitution (IS) model. The participants included 166 children (aged 4-6 years) attending childcare facilities. PA was measured using an accelerometer to calculate the daily activity and wearing time for SB, light-intensity physical activity (LPA), and moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA). DF were classified based on defecation frequency and timing. A multinomial logistic regression analysis was used for the IS model. One-way analysis of variance detected significant differences in MVPA between the DF groups (F(2) = 3.12, p < 0.05). According to the analysis results of the IS model, replacing 5 min of SB with MVPA resulted in improved DF (odds ratio [OR], 0.89; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.81-0.97). Conversely, replacing 5 min of MVPA with SB worsened DF (OR, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.03-1.23). The findings suggest that PA is associated with DF among preschoolers. It also indicates that replacing SB with MVPA could help improve DF in children.

High amplitude propagated contractions with Glycerin versus Bisacodyl: A within-subject comparison in children undergoing colonic manometry

BACKGROUND

The presence of high amplitude propagated contractions (HAPCs) measured by colonic manometry (CM) reflect an intact neuromuscular function of the colon. Bisacodyl and Glycerin are colonic stimulants that induce HAPCs and are used for the treatment of constipation. HAPCs characteristics with each drug have not been compared before. We aimed to compare the HAPC characteristics with Bisacodyl and Glycerin in children undergoing CM for constipation.

METHODS

This is a prospective single-center cross-over study of children aged 2-18 years undergoing CM. All patients received both Glycerin and Bisacodyl during CM. They were randomized to group A with Bisacodyl first (n = 22) and group B with Glycerin first (n = 23), with 1.5 hours in between each dose. Differences in patient and HAPC characteristics between groups were summarized using descriptive statistics and compared using Chi-square test or Wilcoxon rank sum test as appropriate.

KEY RESULTS

A total of 45 patients were included. HAPCs post Bisacodyl had a longer duration of action (median of 40 vs 21.5 min, p < 0.0001), longer propagation (median of 70 vs 60 cm, p = 0.02), and more HAPCs (median of 10 vs 5, p < 0.0001) compared Glycerin. No differences were found in the HAPC amplitude and onset of action between both medications.

Cows' Milk Allergy-Associated Constipation: When to Look for It? A Narrative Review

Constipation is a very common disorder, mostly functional in nature, that may persist for years in up to 35-52% of children. Food allergy prevalence, severity and persistence are increasing over time, and cows' milk protein is the commonest food allergen recognised to affect gastrointestinal motility in children. There is mounting evidence of the role of cows' milk (CM) allergy (CMA) in children with constipation. With this narrative review, we aim to provide clinicians with an updated and critical overview of food allergy-associated constipation. We searched Embase, Medline and the Cochrane Library, using keywords related to the topic. Only reviews and studies including children aged 0-17 years that were published in English were considered. Constipation has been reported in 4.6% of infants with CMA; the prevalence of food allergy underlying chronic constipation in children resistant to conventional treatment and presenting to tertiary clinics ranges between 28% and 78%. The identification of predisposing risk factors and of a specific phenotype of food allergy-induced constipation remains elusive. No allergic tests, radiological or motility investigations achieve sufficient sensitivity and specificity to screen children for CMA-related constipation. A 4-week cows' milk protein (CMP) elimination diet may be considered for children with chronic constipation resistant to conventional treatment and who lack alarm sign/symptoms of organic diseases. In subjects with ameliorated symptoms on CMP elimination, the diagnosis of CMA should be confirmed by a food challenge to avoid an unnecessary protracted diet.

Outcomes of a telemedicine bowel management program during COVID-19

PURPOSE

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we transitioned from an in-person bowel management program (BMP) to a telemedicine BMP. The telemedicine BMP consisted of video and/or phone call visits (remote) or a single initial in-person visit followed by remote visits (hybrid). We hypothesized that patient/family satisfaction of a telemedicine BMP would be comparable to an in-person BMP and that there would be improvement in quality of life and functional outcomes after the telemedicine BMP.

METHODS

After IRB approval, demographic and outcomes data were obtained for patients who underwent the telemedicine BMP from May-October 2020. Outcomes included a parent/patient satisfaction survey, Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL), and parent/patient-reported outcome measures (Vancouver, Baylor, and Cleveland scores) at baseline, 1 and 3 month follow-up. Variables were compared using Chi-square or Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney tests and a generalized mixed model was used to evaluate outcomes scores at follow-up compared to baseline.

RESULTS

Sixty-seven patients were included in our analysis with an average age of 8.6 years (SD: 3.9). Patients had the following diagnoses anorectal malformation (52.2%), Hirschsprung's disease (20.9%), functional constipation (19.4%), myelomeningocele (6.0%), and spinal injury (1.5%). Forty-eight patients (72%) underwent the remote BMP and 19 (28%) underwent the hybrid BMP. Sixty-two percent of parents completed the satisfaction survey, with a median score of 5 (very satisfied) for all questions. Over 75% of parents said they would prefer a telemedicine program over an in-person program. There was significant improvement in the Baylor and Vancouver scores after the BMP (p < 0.01), but no difference in the PedsQL or Cleveland scores (p > 0.05). There was a significant improvement in stool continence after the BMP (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

A telemedicine BMP can be an acceptable alternative to a traditional in-person program. There was high parental/patient satisfaction and significant improvement in outcomes. Further research is needed to assess long-term outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Correlation of endoscopic findings with Doppler ultrasound in portal hypertension in children

Aim of the study

To determine the correlation of the endoscopic findings with portal Doppler and ultrasound (USG) in children with suspected portal hypertension (PHT).

Material and methods

Eighty children with extrahepatic portal vein obstruction (EHPVO) and chronic liver disease (CLD) were included in this retrospective study conducted over a period of 1 year. All patients underwent upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy and Doppler.

Results

The etiology was EHPVO in 30 (37.5%) patients, biliary atresia in 12 (15%), Budd-Chiari syndrome in 11 (13.7%), Wilson’s disease in 10 (12.5%), idiopathic CLD in 8 (10%), autoimmune hepatitis in 4 (5%), glycogen storage disease (GSD) in 3 (3.8%), non-alcoholic liver disease (NAFLD) in 1 (1.3%) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in 1 (1.3%) patient. Fifty-three (66.25%) patients had esophageal varices on endoscopy, of whom 3 (3.8%) had associated gastric varices. Portal hypertensive gastropathy (PHG) was present in 30 (37.5%) patients, of whom 10 (12.5%) had severe PHG. Forty-one (51.3%) patients had PHT on Doppler (κ correlation 0.43). Kappa correlation was 0.43 in patients with biliary atresia, 0.31 in Budd-Chiari syndrome, 0.23 in idiopathic CLD, 0.21 in CLD, and 0.05 in Wilson’s disease. All (100%) EHPVO patients and 39 (78%) CLD patients had PHT on USG. Endoscopic findings of PHT were seen in 24 (80%) EHPVO patients and 29 (58%) CLD patients. All patients with EHPVO had cavernous transformation of the portal vein on Doppler. For patients with CLD, the common Doppler findings were collaterals seen in 35 patients and reversal of flow in 12 patients.

Conclusions

Doppler ultrasound followed by endoscopy should be used to diagnose PHT in children. In children with biliary atresia, Doppler ultrasound may miss changes of PHT.

Constipation after surgery for anorectal malformations: Unrecognised problem until it is a problem

BACKGROUND

Constipation is a common problem after surgery for anorectal malformations (ARMs), especially in patients having preserved rectosigmoid after pull-down surgery. Here, we present our experience with patients having constipation after surgery for ARMs and briefly discuss its management.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed electronic operative and follow-up data from January 2015 to December 2019 of all patients having constipation after surgery for ARMs.

RESULTS

A total of 77 patients were included in the study. The median age was 60 months, and thirty patients were male. Primary diagnoses were rectourethral fistula (26; 33.77%), vestibular fistula (25; 32.47%), perineal fistula/ectopic anus (18; 23.38%), rectovaginal fistula (4; 5.19%) and imperforate anus without fistula (4; 5.19%). Anal stenosis was found in 20 (25.97%) patients, posterior ledge with an adequate anal opening in 5 (6.49%), displaced anus in 4 (5.19%) but no obvious problem found in 48 (62.34%) patients. Non-operative management was successful in 75.44% (43 out of 57) of patients. Surgery was performed in 32 out of 77 patients (41.56%) with no mortality. Forty-three (72.88%) patients are continent, stayed clean, but 16 (27.19%) patients still need some sort of laxative/bowel wash/enema intermittently (Grade I/II constipation). Incidence of constipation was higher in patients operated through anterior sagittal route (27.58%) than posterior sagittal route (23.94%), but it was not statistically significant (P = 0.479). Follow-up ranged from 3 months to 5 years.

CONCLUSION

Constipation is a common problem after ARMs surgery, especially in patients having preserved rectosigmoid after pull-down surgery. It is advisable to create relatively larger neoanus after pull through with early practice of neoanus dilatation, especially in redo cases. Repeated counselling, laxatives and dietary manipulations should begin at the first sign of constipation.

Paediatric constipation for general paediatricians: Review using a case-based and evidence-based approach

Constipation is a common problem in childhood. The most common type of constipation is functional, accounting for 90-95% of all cases. The aim of this review is to provide clinical scenarios with treatment using evidence-based information, and management strategies and a clinical algorithm to guide the management of constipation in children. Recent guidelines and online information sites are detailed. Clinical red flags and organic causes of constipation are included. Four clinical scenarios are presented: case (1) 4-month-old child with constipation since birth and likely Hirschsprung disease; case (2) 6-month-old infant with infant dyschezia; case (3) 4-year old with functional constipation; and; case (4) 9-year old with treatment resistant constipation. Children with functional constipation need a thorough history and physical exam to rule out the presence of any 'red flags' but do not require laboratory investigations. Management includes education and demystification, disimpaction followed by maintenance therapy with oral laxatives, dietary counselling and toilet training. Treatment options differ between infants and children. Disimpaction and maintenance regimens for common laxatives are presented. On treatment failure or on suspicion of organic disease the patient should be referred for further evaluation. The radionuclide intestinal transit study (scintigraphy) is a useful modality for evaluation and planning of management in treatment-resistant children. Treatment options for treatment-resistant patients are presented. High-level evidence (meta-analyses) for pharmalogical and non-pharmalogical treatment modalities are reviewed and an algorithm for assessment and treatment are presented.

Medications for constipation in 2020

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Chronic constipation is a common problem that substantially impacts the quality of life of patients and families, healthcare professionals, and resources. The purpose of this review is to discuss the medications that are available for management of chronic constipation, including medications that have been approved by the FDA for adults, other been studied in pediatrics now, and might become available within the upcoming years.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent developments in the evaluation of childhood constipation are providing a better understanding into defecation disorders in children and not only new therapies are becoming available, including medications, but also other therapies, such as biofeedback for treatment of functional defecation disorders, electrical stimulation, and surgeries. The aim of this article is to provide an update on the medications that are available for management of chronic constipation, especially with the development and study of newer medications, such as Linaclotide and Lubiprostone with promising results in both adult and pediatric patients.

SUMMARY

This review will help us identify and have a better understanding regarding what medications are available for use and the indications, so that we can better manage patients with chronic constipation. VIDEO ABSTRACT.

Prevalence of Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders in European Infants and Toddlers

OBJECTIVE

To assess the prevalence of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) in young children in a cross-sectional, multicenter study in Belgium, Italy, and The Netherlands.

STUDY DESIGN

Children were enrolled if they were age 0-48 months, attending a general pediatrician (Belgium, Italy) or a well-baby clinic (The Netherlands) for routine follow-up. Separate questionnaires were developed for infants age 0-12 months and for toddlers age 13-48 months. Questionnaires evaluated the clinical history, symptoms, sociodemographic information on the family, and exposure to stressful life events. FGIDs were defined according to Rome IV criteria.

RESULTS

In total 2751 children were included: 1698 infants age 0-12 months and 1053 children age 13-48 months. The prevalence of any FGID in infants age 0-12 months and 13-48 months was 24.7% and 11.3%, respectively. The most common disorders were infant regurgitation (13.8%) in infants and functional constipation (9.6%) in toddlers. Multivariable regression analyses demonstrated that younger age (P = .030) and formula feeding (P = .045) were associated with the prevalence of any FGID among infants. Country (Italy) (P = .033) and parents subjected to domestic violence (P = .035) were associated with the prevalence of any FGID in toddlers age 13-48 months.

CONCLUSIONS

FGIDs are common in a community sample of Western European infants and toddlers. Regurgitation is most prevalent in infants and functional constipation is most common in toddlers. Younger age, formula feeding, and domestic violence to parents are associated with the prevalence of FGIDs.

Epidemiology of Functional Abdominal Pain Disorders and Functional Defecation Disorders in Adolescents in Curacao

OBJECTIVES

Functional abdominal pain disorders (FAPDs) and functional defecation disorders (FDDs) are common in children and adolescents, but prevalence rates from the Caribbean are lacking. Therefore, our aim was to determine the prevalence of FAPDs and FDDs in adolescents in Curacao and to assess the influence of psychosocial factors on the prevalence of FAPDs and FDDs.

METHODS

The prevalence of FAPDs and FDDs in children and adolescents living in Curacao, ages 11 to 18 years, was assessed using the Rome IV Questionnaire on Pediatric Gastrointestinal Disorders (RIV-QPGD). FAPDs and FDDs were diagnosed according to the Rome IV criteria. Sociodemographic characteristics, somatic symptoms, early adverse life events, stressful life events, and physical and emotional abuse were evaluated as associated factors.

RESULTS

Out of 946 questionnaires distributed, 783 were included for further analysis. The mean age of adolescents was 14.7 years (±1.6) with 61.7% being girls. A total of 266 adolescents (34%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 30.7-37.5) met Rome IV criteria for at least 1 FAPD or FDD. Twenty-nine adolescents (3.7%) qualified for 2 functional gastrointestinal disorders. Functional constipation (18.6%) and irritable bowel syndrome (12.3%) were the most prevalent disorders. After multivariate logistic regression analyses, dizziness (odds ratio [OR] 1.84, 95% CI 1.28-2.64) was significantly associated with having a FAPD or FDD.

CONCLUSIONS

FAPDs and FDDs are common in adolescents in Curacao. Dizziness is associated with the presence of a FAPD or FDD.

Intermediate and long-term outcomes of a bowel management program for children with severe constipation or fecal incontinence

PURPOSE

We sought to examine the long-term clinical success rates of a bowel management program (BMP) for children with severe constipation or fecal incontinence.

METHODS

A single center review was conducted of children (≤18 years) enrolled in a BMP and followed in a colorectal specialty clinic (2011-2017). All patients who completed an initial week of the BMP were included. Patients enrolled in a BMP after 2018 were excluded. Success was defined as no accidents and <2 stool smears per week.

RESULTS

A total of 285 patients were reviewed. BMP was initiated at a median age of 7 years (9 months-17 years). Primary diagnoses included functional constipation (112), anorectal malformation (ARM) (104), Hirschsprung Disease (HD) (41), rectal prolapse (14), spina bifida (6), fecal incontinence (3) and other (5; 4 sacral coccygeal teratomas and a GSW to the buttocks). Initial bowel regimen included large volume enema in 54% and high dose stimulant laxative in 46%. The initial Bowel Management Week (BMW) was successful in 233 (87% of adherent patients) patients with 17 (6%) non-adherent. One hundred twenty-two patients had follow-up at 12 months (72% success amongst adherent patients, 7% of patient non-adherent) and 98 patients had follow-up at 24 months (78% success amongst adherent patients, 10% of patients non-adherent). 21/154 (14%) patients started on enemas were later successfully transitioned to laxatives and 13/132 (10%) patients started on laxatives subsequently required enemas in order to stay clean. Clinic phone contact occurred outside of scheduled visits for adjustment to the BMP in 44% of patients. 33% of patients had surgery to aid bowel management (antegrade colonic enema (ACE) = 81, resection + ACE = 13, diverting stoma = 4). Median follow up was 2.5 years (5 weeks-7 years).

CONCLUSION

Children who follow a structured BMP with readily available personnel to provide outpatient assistance can experience successful treatment of severe constipation or fecal incontinence long-term. A multi-institutional collaboration is necessary to identify factors which predict failure of a BMP and non-adherence.

TYPE OF STUDY

Single-center retrospective chart review.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

Outcomes of colonic resection for chronic idiopathic constipation in childhood

AIMS

The purpose of this study was to describe the outcomes of colonic resection for constipation in children. Three different types of resection are compared: pan-proctocolectomy with ileoanal pouch anastomosis (IPAA), total colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis (IR), and segmental resections and anastomosis (SR).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All colonic resections were prospectively recorded and their outcomes tabulated. Outcomes were classified as Good: anal defecation with no soiling; Intermediate: anal defecation with occasional soiling or need for ACE; Poor: a permanent stoma. All complications were also recorded.

RESULTS

22 children underwent colonic resection over a 20 year period. Mean follow up was 40 months. 18 had prior antegrade continent enema (ACE), and 12 had a prior stoma. 13 underwent IPAA, 6 IR, and 3 SR. 10 (45%) had a good outcome, 4 (18%) had an intermediate outcome, and 8 (36%) had a poor outcome. Resection restored 9/12 (75%) of children with a preexisting stoma to anal defecation. No procedure produced better outcome than the others in terms of results or complications.

CONCLUSIONS

There may be a role for colonic resection in selected constipated children, but parents should be warned that there remains a significant possibility of a permanent stoma. Our study suggests that around two-fifths will be left with a permanent stoma.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

Value of Fluoroscopic Defecography in Constipated Children With Abnormal Colon Transit Time Test Results

Background/Aims

Colon transit time (CTT) test is regarded as the gold standard for evaluating colon transit function. Fluoroscopic defecography (FD) is a dynamic radiologic test to assess anorectal function. The aim is to evaluate the value of FD in constipated children with abnormal CTT test results.

Methods

Fifty-one children (27 girls) with a mean age of 9.8 ± 3.2 years who met Rome III criteria for constipation and older than 5 years with abnormal CTT test results underwent FD.

Results

Of 51 children, 27 (52.9%) showed positive findings on FD, including pelvic floor dyssynergia (PFD) (10/27, 37.0%), structural abnormality (15/27, 55.6%) (rectocele 53.3%, intussusception 33.3%, and both 13.4%), and both PFD and rectocele (2/27, 7.4%). In terms of CTT test subtype, of 35 children who had outlet obstruction type in CTT test, 19 (54.2%) had positive findings, including PFD (8/19, 42.1%), structural abnormality (9/19, 47.4%) (rectocele 55.6%, intussusception 22.2%, and both 22.2%), and both PFD and rectocele (2/19, 10.5%). Of the 16 children who had slow transit type of CTT test, 8 (50.0%) had positive findings, including PFD (2/8, 25.0%) and structural abnormality (6/8, 75.0%). Of the 6 children who had structural abnormality, 3 (50.0%) had rectocele and 3 (50.0%) had intussusception. For the 2 children (2/16, 12.5%) who had PFD, puborectalis muscle relax failure was found on FD. Puborectalis muscle relax failure was treated with biofeedback and medication. In the minor abnormalities, medication continued without additional therapeutic modalities.

Conclusions

FD was valuable for both diagnoses of underlying causes and interpretation of CTT test results in children with abnormal CTT test results. Therefore, this study suggests that FD and CTT tests should be incorporated into logical thinking for constipation in children.

Management of functional constipation in children and adults

Functional constipation is common in children and adults worldwide. Functional constipation shows similarities in children and adults, but important differences also exist regarding epidemiology, symptomatology, pathophysiology, diagnostic workup and therapeutic management. In children, the approach focuses on the behavioural nature of the disorder and the initial therapeutic steps involve toilet training and laxatives. In adults, management focuses on excluding an underlying cause and differentiating between different subtypes of functional constipation - normal transit, slow transit or an evacuation disorder - which has important therapeutic consequences. Treatment of adult functional constipation involves lifestyle interventions, pelvic floor interventions (in the presence of a rectal evacuation disorder) and pharmacological therapy. When conventional treatments fail, children and adults are considered to have intractable functional constipation, a troublesome and distressing condition. Intractable constipation is managed with a stepwise approach and in rare cases requires surgical interventions such as antegrade continence enemas in children or colectomy procedures for adults. New drugs, including prokinetic and prosecretory agents, and surgical strategies, such as sacral nerve stimulation, have the potential to improve the management of children and adults with intractable functional constipation.

Group Treatment of Fecal Incontinence: A Description of an Interdisciplinary Intervention

INTRODUCTION

Approximately 5% of children in the United States have chronic fecal incontinence. Unfortunately, standard medical management of fecal incontinence fails in 20% to 60% of cases. A combined medical-behavioral model is often recommended in these cases. The purpose of this pilot study was to describe an interdisciplinary group-based treatment for fecal incontinence in school-aged children, and to present a description of changes in treatment adherence rates that affect clinical effectiveness.

METHOD

Poop group employed a developmentally appropriate model of care in which caregivers and children participated in separate but simultaneously held therapy groups. This interdisciplinary 6-week protocol is designed to increase appropriate stooling, decrease soiling events, and increase medication adherence pre- to post-treatment. Group sessions focus on the GI system, medication, toilet sitting posture, hydration, fiber, and behavior contracts. In addition, participant families consult with an Advanced Nurse Practitioner privately at each session discussing symptoms and making medication modifications as needed.

RESULTS

Nineteen families completed the 6-week protocol. Appropriate stool frequency was improved (P ≤ 0.01), and soiling was reduced (P ≤ 0.00). Medication adherence was also improved (P ≤ 0.04). Treatment results were maintained at 1-month follow-up.

DISCUSSION

A developmentally targeted intervention and interdisciplinary focus of treatment likely account for treatment successes.

CONCLUSION

Poop group may be an effective interdisciplinary treatment option for families of children who fail traditional outpatient treatment.

Development of a Patient-reported Experience and Outcome Measures in Pediatric Patients Undergoing Bowel Management for Constipation and Fecal Incontinence

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of this review is develop a reliable and valid questionnaire that assesses patient-reported experience measures (PREMs) and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) of caregivers, families, and patients with severe constipation and fecal incontinence who failed conservative treatments and require a formal bowel management program (BMP).

METHODS

A 5-step iterative process was utilized to ensure the reliability and validity of the final instrument. Parents or guardians of patients undergoing our week-long BMP were first asked 20 open-ended questions aimed at understanding the challenges in managing their child's condition. Responses were transformed into an initial 41-item survey constituted of 2 constructs relating to PREMs (24 items) and PROMs (17 items). Survey items were then administered to 359 parents and guardians undergoing BMP. Cognitive interviews were performed with 20 families to assess face validity and to further refine the survey. Instrument readability and reliability was assessed by Flesch-Kincaid and Crohnbach α analyses. Items that weakly correlated were deleted to yield a final instrument that was both valid and reliable.

RESULTS

A 33-statement survey was developed that encompasses important physical and emotional health concerns, quality of life, treatment success, financial considerations, schooling, parental employment, and social concerns. The final instrument, the Patient-Reported Experience and Outcome Measure in a Bowel Management Program (PREOM-BMP), is divided into 2 separate constructs that assess important patient-reported experience (22 items) and outcome (11 items) measures. Reliability analyses on the final instrument yielded a Crohnbach α of 0.925.

CONCLUSIONS

The PREOM-BMP offers physicians and nursing professionals a brief and valid tool to measure the impact of a bowel management program on both the child and the family unit.

Contribution of Sensory Processing to Chronic Constipation in Preschool Children

OBJECTIVE

To assess differences in sensory processing patterns between children with chronic constipation compared with a matched normative sample as well as to examine the extent to which specific sensory processing patterns and modality scores predicted atypical toileting behaviors.

STUDY DESIGN

We used a cross-sectional comparative design to evaluate differences between children age 3 and 5 years old with constipation (n = 66) and those in a matched control sample (n = 66). We also examined the contribution of sensory processing patterns to atypical toileting behavior in the clinical sample.

RESULTS

Children with chronic constipation showed significantly higher sensory scores than a matched normative sample, specifically in oral processing (P < .001), visual processing (P < . 05), sensory avoiding (P < .001), and sensory sensitivity (P < .05). Sensory registration, avoidance, and oral processing significantly predicted toileting behavior over-responsiveness, and attentional difficulties contribute to toileting under-responsiveness.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings revealed that children with chronic constipation have underlying sensory characteristics that contribute to toileting behavioral difficulties. By identifying sensory processing patterns of children with chronic constipation, we can optimize behavioral interventions to complement laxative therapy for this population.

PEG 3350 Versus Lactulose for Treatment of Functional Constipation in Children: Randomized Study

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to compare the clinical efficacy and tolerance of polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG) and lactulose for the treatment of functional constipation in infants and children.

METHODS

This randomized, multicenter study covered 12 weeks of treatment and 4 weeks of follow-up of patients with functional constipation. Patients were randomized (central randomization) to receive either PEG or lactulose. The primary end points were the number of defecations per week after 12 weeks of treatment and improvement in stool consistency of at least 2 points in the Bristol scale. The secondary end point was the presence of adverse events. Bowel movements ≥3 per week and stool consistency ≥2 (Bristol scale) were considered as successful treatment.

RESULTS

We enrolled 102 patients (M 57, F 45) aged 3.62 ± 1.42 years and 88 completed the study. At week 12, good clinical outcome was achieved in 98% (PEG) and 90% (lactulose). The PEG group had more defecations per week compared with the lactulose group (7.9 ± 0.6 vs 5.7 ± 0.5, P = 0.008) and both groups had similar frequency of defecation with pain (5% vs 5%, P = 0.9), stool retention (7% vs 10%, P = 057), large volume of stools (30% vs 31%, P = 0.9) and hard stools (7% vs 13%, P = 0.58). There were more patients with side effects in the lactulose group (15 vs 23, P = 0.02), mostly bloating and abdominal pain.

CONCLUSIONS

PEG 3350 is more effective and causes fewer side effects than lactulose in the treatment of constipation in infants and children.

Lactulose for the treatment of Chinese children with chronic constipation: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of lactulose for the treatment of Chinese children with chronic constipation.

METHODS

A total of 100 children with chronic constipation were included in this randomized controlled trial. They were equally and randomly allocated to a treatment group (n = 50) and a placebo group (n = 50). The participants in the treatment group received lactulose, while the subjects in the placebo group received placebo intervention. The children in both groups were treated for a total of 6 weeks. The primary outcome was daily stool frequency. The secondary outcomes consisted of stool consistency, measured by the Bristol Stool Form Scale, abdominal pain, flatulence, as well as the adverse events. All outcomes were measured at baseline and after 6-weeks treatment.

RESULTS

After 6 weeks treatment, lactulose showed better outcomes in daily stool frequency (P < .01), and stool consistency (P < .01), except the abdominal pain (P = .24), and flatulence (P = .44), compared with the placebo. Additionally, no significant differences regarding all adverse events were detected between 2 groups.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study found that lactulose is efficacious for Chinese children with chronic constipation after 6-weeks of treatment.

PROPOSALS TO APPROXIMATE THE PEDIATRIC ROME CONSTIPATION CRITERIA TO EVERYDAY PRACTICE

BACKGROUND

Acceptance of the prevailing pediatric Rome constipation criteria, by primary care physician, is still low. Even for research purposes they have not been universally adopted. Thus, it has been indicated that some re-evaluation of these criteria would be welcome.

OBJECTIVE

The authors aimed to look at the timing of diagnosis and the dietary treatment recommendations in the criteria, to make proposals trying to approximate them to everyday practice.

METHODS

The literature cited in the Rome criteria was reviewed and the publications pertinent to the subject, searched by Medline up to January 2018, were included.

RESULTS

An early diagnosis is fundamental to avoid evolution to bothersome complications and possibly to 'intractable' constipation, but the inclusion of two items of the criteria might hamper it. Thus, one constipation sign/symptom should suffice, usually the easily observable 'painful or hard bowel movements'. Details about dietary fiber recommendations are missing in the criteria, although its increase is usually the first approach in primary care, and overall the data about dietary fiber supplements point to beneficial effects.

CONCLUSION

For diagnosis and treatment of pediatric constipation in primary care, one constipation sign/symptom should suffice. The recommended daily dietary fiber intake, according to the American Health Foundation, should be detailed as a treatment measure, and also for prevention, from weaning on.

A structured bowel management program for patients with severe functional constipation can help decrease emergency department visits, hospital admissions, and healthcare costs

BACKGROUND

Published health-care costs related to constipation in children in the USA are estimated at $3.9 billion/year. We sought to assess the effect of a bowel management program (BMP) on health-care utilization and costs.

METHODS

At two collaborating centers, BMP involves an outpatient week during which a treatment plan is implemented and objective assessment of stool burden is performed with daily radiography. We reviewed all patients with severe functional constipation who participated in the program from March 2011 to June 2015 in center 1 and from April 2014 to April 2016 in center 2. ED visits, hospital admissions, and constipation-related morbidities (abdominal pain, fecal impaction, urinary retention, urinary tract infections) 12 months before and 12 months after completion of the BMP were recorded.

RESULTS

One hundred eighty-four patients were included (center 1 = 96, center 2 = 88). Sixty-three (34.2%) patients had at least one unplanned visit to the ED before treatment. ED visits decreased to 23 (12.5%) or by 64% (p < 0.0005). Unplanned hospital admissions decreased from 65 to 28, i.e., a 56.9% reduction (p < 0.0005).

CONCLUSION

In children with severe functional constipation, a structured BMP decreases unplanned visits to the ED, hospital admissions, and costs for constipation-related health care.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

Abdominal radiograph usage trends in the setting of constipation: a 10-year experience

PURPOSE

Limited data are available to guide the use of abdominal radiographs in the setting of constipation, especially in adults. Anecdotally, there has been a recent increase in such examinations. We sought to determine ordering trends for abdominal radiographs ordered to assess constipation, as well as to better understand referring clinician and radiologist opinion on such examinations.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of all abdominal radiographs performed between 2004 and 2014 at our institution with a primary indication of constipation. We also surveyed clinicians and radiologists regarding their opinions and practices involving such examinations.

RESULTS

Constipation radiograph volume increased by approximately 56% over the 10-year period, while volume of all other abdominal radiographs decreased. Growth was greatest in adult females. Both radiologists and clinicians agree that constipation is a clinical diagnosis and are neutral as to whether radiographs help make the diagnosis. Clinicians somewhat agree that radiographs are helpful in determining management and find quantitation of stool burden within the radiology report helpful. Radiologists tend to find radiographs inaccurate at quantifying stool burden. Clinicians tend to agree that the increasing use of radiographs for constipation is appropriate while radiologists disagree. Education on these trends did not affect the intended future ordering practice of referring clinicians.

CONCLUSIONS

Constipation abdominal radiograph volume has disproportionately increased, especially in adult women. Clinicians and radiologists agree that constipation is a clinical diagnosis. Otherwise, the groups tend to have differing opinions on the utility of such examinations. Clinicians indicated no intention to change their ordering practices. Further investigation is needed to better define the role of imaging for this indication, including how the radiologist may best interpret and report such examinations.

PEG 3350 Administration Is Not Associated with Sustained Elevation of Glycol Levels

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether trace amounts of ethylene glycol (EG), diethylene glycol (DEG), or triethylene glycol (TEG) in PEG 3350 are associated with increased blood levels of EG, DEG, or TEG in children receiving daily PEG 3350 therapy.

STUDY DESIGN

Blood samples were drawn from 9 children who were being treated for constipation with PEG 3350 (6-12 years old) before and every 30 minutes for 3 hours after receiving 17 g of PEG 3350. PEG 3350, tap water, and blood samples from 18 age- and sex-matched controls also were analyzed.

RESULTS

Baseline blood levels of EG and TEG did not differ between control and treated groups. DEG levels (median [IQR]) were lower in the PEG 3350 group (40.13 ng/mL [36.69, 63.94] vs 92.83 ng/mL [51.06, 128.93], P = .008). After PEG 3350 dose, levels of EG (390.51 ng/mL [326.06, 624.55]) and TEG (2.21 ng/mL [0, 4.5]) peaked at 90 minutes at 1032.81 ng/mL (826.84, 1486.13) (P = .009) and 35.17 ng/mL (15.81, 45.13) (P = .0005), respectively. DEG levels did not significantly change. Standard 17-g doses of PEG 3350 in 8 oz (237 mL) of water resulted in concentrations (mean ± SD) of EG, DEG, and TEG of 1.32 ± 0.23 µg/mL, 0.18 ± 0.03 µg/mL, and 0.12 ± 0.01 µg/mL, respectively. EG, DEG, and TEG levels in public water supply were 0.07 µg/mL, 0.21 µg/mL, and 0.02 µg/mL, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Daily PEG 3350 therapy in children was not associated with sustained elevation of EG, DEG, or TEG blood levels over levels in matched controls. Although EG and TEG levels increased after a standard dose of PEG 3350, their peak values remained well below toxic levels.

Usefulness of Assessment of Stool Form by the Modified Bristol Stool Form Scale in Primary Care Pediatrics

PURPOSE

Rome criteria are considered the gold standard for diagnosing functional constipation. The modified Bristol stool form scale (m-BSFS) was validated to measure stool form in children. However, neither the potential use of the m-BSFS as a tool to facilitate the diagnosis of potential constipation, nor the agreement between m-BSFS and stool consistency by Rome has been studied. Our objective is to determine if m-BSFS is a reliable tool to facilitat detection of constipation; and the agreement between stool form by m-BSFS and hard stool criteria in Rome.

METHODS

A survey tool with the Rome III criteria and the m-BSFS was developed. A Likert-scale addressed frequency of each stool form on the m-BSFS. Responses to Rome III and m-BSFS were compared.

RESULTS

The sensitivity and specificity of the m-BSFS was 79.2% and 66.0% respectively; and in children <4 years. improved to 81.2% and 75.0% respectively. There was poor agreement between hard stools by m-BSFS and the painful or hard bowel movement question of Rome Criteria.

CONCLUSION

The potential utility of m-BSFS as a reasonably good tool to facilitate the diagnosis of potential constipation in children is shown. The poor agreement between painful or hard stool question in Rome III, and ratings for hard stool on the m-BSFS illustrates that one's perception may differ between a question and a picture. A useful pictorial tool to appraise stool form may, thus, be a favorable complement in the process of enquiry about bowel habits in well-child care.

Lifestyle and bowel movements in school children: Results from the Toyama Birth Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Constipation is a prevalent health disorder. There have been few epidemiological surveys on constipation in Japanese children. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of non-daily bowel movements (BM) and irregular BM among children and to identify modifiable lifestyle factors relevant to bowel habits.

METHODS

Subjects were from the Toyama Birth Cohort Study in Japan. A total of 7762 children aged 9-10 years were investigated via questionnaire in 1999. We evaluated bowel habit and the relationship between lifestyle and BM. Non-daily BM and totally irregular BM were defined as dependent variables in the present study.

RESULTS

Non-daily BM were reported by 21.8% of boys and by 31.6% of girls, while 10.6% of boys and 18.3% of girls had totally irregular BM. Non-daily BM were significantly associated with skipping breakfast (OR, 1.23), slow eating (OR, 1.13), physical inactivity (OR, 1.50) and late wake up (OR, 1.29). Totally irregular BM were significantly correlated with skipping breakfast (OR, 1.30), slow eating (OR, 1.41), physical inactivity (OR, 1.27), long TV viewing (OR, 1.52), late bedtime (OR, 1.43), and short sleep duration (OR, 1.33). More girls had non-daily and totally irregular BM than boys, and these sex differences were not reduced after adjusting for lifestyle variables.

CONCLUSIONS

Non-daily and totally irregular BM are common in children, and there are many relevant lifestyle factors. Establishing regular lifestyle habits may lessen constipation.

Approach to Constipation in Children

PURPOSE

There is a scarcity of literature, and prevalent misconceptions about constipation in India.

METHODS

A literature search in PubMed was conducted with regard to epidemiology, clinical features, and management of constipation. Special emphasis was paid to functional constipation and refractory constipation. English language studies available full text over the last 25 years were considered and relevant information was extracted.

CONCLUSIONS

Estimated prevalence of constipation is 3% among toddlers and pre-school children worldwide and 95%, of them are considered functional. A careful history and thorough physical examination is all that is required to diagnose functional constipation. Management includes disimpaction followed by maintenance therapy with oral laxative, dietary modification and toilet training. A close and regular follow-up is necessary for successful treatment. In most of the cases laxative needs to be continued for several months and sometimes years. Early withdrawal of laxative is the commonest cause of recurrence. Refractory constipation is less common in primary care set up. Radiological colon transit study is useful in picking up Slow transit constipation. Antegrade continence enema plays an important role in the management of slow transit constipation.

Are Diet and Constipation Related in Children?

Constipation is a common complaint in childhood, and the etiology of many healthcare referrals. Despite literature documenting the high frequency of this problem, there is little research directly relating the food consumed and the eventual stool consistency. There is literature suggesting the importance of adequate fiber intake in children to maintain soft stools. Other dietary modifications actually have not been shown to be helpful or are not based on actual clinical studies. The presence of dietary allergies may also contribute to etiology of constipation. More studies to provide further linkages between diet and constipation are clearly needed.

Parental characteristics and functional constipation in children: a cross-sectional cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate personality, psychological health, physical health and childrearing practices in mothers and fathers of children with functional constipation (FC) compared with mothers and fathers of healthy controls.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional cohort study.

SETTING

Outpatient paediatric gastroenterology clinic at a tertiary hospital in the Netherlands.

PATIENTS

Parents of children (4-16 years) presenting with FC were included between January 2010 and August 2012. Participating parents were asked to recruit parents of another child of the same age without FC as their own controls. Data of 116 mothers and 115 fathers of 127 children with FC, and 84 mothers and 73 fathers of 91 children without FC were collected.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Parental characteristics were evaluated by using the NEO Five-Factor Inventory to assess personality, the Brief Symptom Inventory and Physical Symptom Checklist to assess psychological and physical health and the Ghent Parental Behavior Scale to assess childrearing practices.

RESULTS

Mothers of constipated children had significant higher scores on the neuroticism personality factor and reported higher rates of overall psychological distress and depression. Both mothers and fathers of children with FC reported significant more physical symptoms than parents of children without FC. Mothers of children with FC showed more positive childrearing practices compared with controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Personality, psychological and physical health, and childrearing practices differ significantly between parents of children with FC and parents of control subjects. Parental factors should be taken into account when evaluating children with FC.

Chronic Functional Constipation and Encopresis in Children in Relationship with the Psychosocial Environment

Functional constipation is an issue for both the patient and his/her family, affecting the patient's psychoemotional balance, social relations, and their harmonious integration in the school environment. We aimed to highlight the connection between chronic constipation and encopresis and the patient's psychosocial and family-related situation. Material and Method. 57 patients with ages spanning from 6 to 15 were assessed within the pediatric gastroenterology ward. Sociodemographic, medical, and psychological data was recorded. The collected data was processed using the SPSS 20 software. Results. The study group consisted of 57 children diagnosed with encopresis (43 boys (75.44%) and 14 girls (24.56%)), M = 10.82 years. It was determined that most of the children came from urban families with a poor socioeducational status. We identified a level of studies of 11.23 ± 5.56 years in mothers, while fathers had an average number of 9.35 ± 4.53 years of study. We also found a complex relationship between encopretic episodes and school performances (F = 7.968, p = 0.001, 95% Cl). Children with encopresis were found to have more anxiety/depression symptoms, greater social problems, more disruptive behavior, and poorer school performance. Conclusions. The study highlights the importance of the family environment and socioeconomic factors in manifestations of chronic constipation and encopresis.

Correlation between Colon Transit Time Test Value and Initial Maintenance Dose of Laxative in Children with Chronic Functional Constipation

PURPOSE

To evaluate the correlation between colon transit time (CTT) test value and initial maintenance dose of polyethylene glycol (PEG) 4000 or lactulose.

METHODS

Of 415 children with chronic functional constipation, 190 were enrolled based on exclusion criteria using the CTT test, defecation diary, and clinical chart. The CTT test was performed with prior disimpaction. The laxative dose for maintenance was determined on the basis of the defecation diary and clinical chart. The Shapiro-Wilk test and Pearson's and Spearman's correlations were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

The overall group median value and interquartile range of the CTT test was 43.8 (31.8) hours. The average PEG 4000 dose for maintenance in the overall group was 0.68±0.18 g/kg/d; according to age, the dose was 0.73±0.16 g/kg/d (<8 years), 0.53±0.12 g/kg/d (8 to <12 years), and 0.36±0.05 g/kg/d (12 to 15 years). The dose of lactulose was 1.99±0.43 mL/kg/d (<8 years) or 1.26±0.25 mL/kg/d (8 to <12 years). There was no significant correlation between CTT test value and initial dose of laxative, irrespective of the subgroup (encopresis, abnormal CTT test subtype) for either laxative. Even in the largest group (overall, n=109, younger than 8 years and on PEG 4000), the correlation was weak (Pearson's correlation coefficient [R]=0.268, p=0.005). Within the abnormal transit group, subgroup (n=73, younger than 8 years and on PEG 4000) correlation was weak (R=0.267, p=0.022).

CONCLUSION

CTT test value cannot predict the initial maintenance dose of PEG 4000 or lactulose with linear correlation.

Value of 24-hour Delayed Film of Barium Enema for Evaluation of Colon Transit Function in Young Children with Constipation

Background/Aims

A colon transit time test using radio-opaque markers (CTTRM) is considered the gold standard for evaluating colon transit function. A 24-hour delayed film of barium enema (BE) has been used as a supplementary method in structural evaluations. The aim of this study was to evaluate the utility of a 24-hour delayed BE film for assessing colon transit function in young children with constipation.

Methods

In total, 93 children with constipation who performed both single-contrast BE and CTTRM were enrolled in this study. Of these, the data from 70 children were analyzed (males 33, females 37; mean age [range], 5.63 ± 2.94 [2–14] years). The basic principle of the study is “velocity = distance/time”. Time values were identified in both studies, and the colon length and distance of barium movement were measured on the 24-hour delayed BE film. Thus, colon transit velocity values could be calculated using both methods. The correlation between colon transit velocity using a 24-hour delayed BE film versus CTTRM was analyzed statistically.

Results

Median value (interquartile range) of colon transit velocity using CTTRM was 1.57 (1.07–2.89) cm/hr, and that using BE of that was 1.58 (0.94–2.07) cm/hr. The Spearman correlation coefficient was 0.438 (P < 0.001) for the overall group. The correlation was strongest in children younger than 4 years (r = 0.537, P = 0.032).

Conclusions

Although the correlation between BE and CTTRM was not very strong, the 24-hour delayed BE film could provide broad information about colon transit function in young children, especially those under 4 years who usually cannot undergo CTTRM.

Free fatty acid suppositories are as effective as docusate sodium and sorbitol enemas in treating constipation in children

AIM

A well-documented, clinically proven per rectum treatment for childhood constipation is needed. This phase two clinical trial evaluated the efficacy of suppositories containing free fatty acids (FFA) compared with Klyx docusate sodium and sorbitol enemas.

METHODS

A randomised, controlled, single-blind study was undertaken on 77 children aged between one and 17 who presented to an emergency department in Iceland and were diagnosed with constipation. In stage one, 23 patients were randomised to receive lower dose FFA suppositories or Klyx (n = 33). In stage two, 21 different patients were randomised to receive higher dose suppositories and compared with the same Klyx control subjects.

RESULTS

The suppositories were effective at bowel emptying in 39% of the group who received the lower FFA doses and 81% of the group receiving higher doses, compared with 88% in the Klyx control group. Symptom relief was obtained in 30% of the group receiving the lower doses and 71% of the group receiving the higher doses, compared with 73% in the control group.

CONCLUSION

The higher dose FFA suppositories were as effective as the Klyx enemas with regard to bowel emptying and symptom relief and might provide an important and less invasive alternative for childhood constipation.

Normal Bowel Pattern in Children and Dietary and Other Precipitating Factors in Functional Constipation

AIM

To study the bowel pattern of children in general population and children with habit constipation with respect to food habits and regarding psychosocial aspect of toileting.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective descriptive study was done in the Institute of child health and hospital for children, Chennai, with two groups, Functional constipation group and Normal bowel pattern group. The functional group included the children with the age group of 2-12 years, of either sex who fulfilled the ROME III criteria for constipation. Normal bowel pattern group had school children of age group 6-12 years of age and 2-5-year-old children attending OPD for minor ailments. The demographic profile, socioeconomic status, complaints, psychosocial aspects affecting bowel pattern and diet chart were collected and recorded from the parents in proforma. Stool frequency and type of stool passed were recorded for a week, with Bristol stool chart.

RESULTS

A total of 523 and 131 children were analysed for normal bowel pattern and functional constipation respectively. Data analysis done using SPSS version 15. The prevalence of functional constipation was noted in 13.5% with female preponderance and in the age group of 2-4 years.

CONCLUSION

Constipation continues to be a problem, mostly under recognised in older population. Psychosocial factors had a significant effect on functional constipation. Skipping breakfast, early toilet training, low intake of vegetables and fruits were other factors of significance leading to constipation.

Parental child-rearing attitudes are associated with functional constipation in childhood

OBJECTIVE

Parenting factors are assumed to play a role in the development and maintenance of childhood constipation. However, knowledge about the association between parenting factors and childhood constipation is limited. This study investigates the association between parental child-rearing attitudes and prominent symptoms of functional constipation and assesses the strength of this association.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional data of 133 constipated children and their parents were collected.

SETTING

The gastrointestinal outpatient clinic at the Emma Children's Hospital in the Netherlands.

PATIENTS

Children with functional constipation aged 4-18 years referred by general practitioners, school doctors and paediatricians.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Parental child-rearing attitudes were assessed by the Amsterdam version of the Parental Attitude Research Instrument (A-PARI). Symptoms of constipation in the child were assessed by a standardised interview. Negative binomial and logistic regression models were used to test the association between child-rearing attitudes and constipation symptoms.

RESULTS

Parental child-rearing attitudes are associated with defecation and faecal incontinence frequency. Higher and lower scores on the autonomy attitude scale were associated with decreased defecation frequency and increased faecal incontinence. High scores on the overprotection and self-pity attitude scales were associated with increased faecal incontinence. More and stronger associations were found for children aged ≥6 years than for younger children.

CONCLUSIONS

Parental child-rearing attitudes are associated with functional constipation in children. Any parenting issues should be addressed during treatment of children with constipation. Referral to mental health services is needed when parenting difficulties hinder treatment or when the parent-child relationship is at risk.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN2518556.

Clinical characteristics of pediatric constipation in South jordan

PURPOSE

Constipation is a common pediatric problem worldwide. This study aims to describe the clinical characteristics of pediatric constipation in south Jordan according to gender and age group.

METHODS

All patients with constipation managed at our pediatric gastroenterology service between September 2009 and December 2012 were included. Hospital charts were reviewed. Demographic data, clinical characteristics, and final diagnosis were recorded. Data were analyzed according to gender and the following age groups: infants, pre-school, school age, and adolescents.

RESULTS

During the study period, 126 patients were enrolled. The number (percentage) of patients according to age were the following infants: 43 (34.1%), pre-school: 55 (43.7%), school age: 25 (19.8%), and adolescents: 3 (2.4%). Males made up 54.8% of the study population. There were no statistical gender differences in any age group. The most common symptom in all age groups was dry, hard stool. Infrequent defecation was found in almost one-half of the patients. Fecal incontinence was more common in school-aged children compared to pre-school-aged children and adolescents. Abdominal pain was seen in almost 40% of the constipated children. Abdominal pain was more prevalent in girls and older children. Fecal mass in the rectum was the most common physical finding, with constipated boys exhibiting higher rates. Functional constipation was the most common etiology.

CONCLUSION

Clinical characteristics of constipation in children vary according to age group and gender. Older children had less frequent bowel motions, a longer duration of symptoms, and a higher prevalence of long-standing constipation compilations (fecal incontinence and abdominal pain).

A randomised, double-blind study of polyethylene glycol 4000 and lactulose in the treatment of constipation in children

Background

Chronic constipation is frequent in children. The objective of this study is to compare the efficacy and safety of PEG 4000 and lactulose for the treatment of chronic constipation in young children.

Methods

This randomised, double-blind study enrolled 88 young children aged 12 to 36 months, who were randomly assigned to receive lactulose (3.3 g per day) or PEG 4000 (8 g per day) for four weeks. The primary efficacy variable was stool frequency during the fourth week of treatment. Secondary outcomes were the number and frequency of subjective symptoms associated with defecation at each visit.

Results

Stool frequency was comparable in the two groups at baseline (lactulose: 0.7 ± 0.5; PEG 4000: 0.5 ± 0.55). Mean stool frequency increased from 0.70 ± 0.50 stools/day at baseline to 0.80 ± 0.41 at Week 4 in the lactulose group and from 0.50 ± 0.55 to 1.10 ± 0.55 stools/day in the PEG 4000 group. A significant difference was observed in the adjusted mean change from baseline, which was 0.15 stools/day in the lactulose group and 0.51 stools/day in the PEG 4000 group, with a least-squares mean difference of 0.36 stools/day [95% CI: 0.16 to 0.56]. With respect to secondary outcome variables, stool consistency and ease of stool passage improved more in the PEG 4000 group (p = 0.001). The incidence of adverse events was similar in both groups, the majority of which were mild.

Conclusions

PEG 4000 has superior efficacy to lactulose for the treatment of chronic constipation in young children and is well tolerated.

Trial registration

US National Institute of Health Clinical Trials database; study NCT00255372 first registered 17th November 2005.

Peristeen (ⓒ) transanal irrigation system for paediatric faecal incontinence: a single centre experience

Aim. To evaluate the efficacy of the Peristeen (Ⓒ) transanal irrigation system when treating faecal incontinence in children due to chronic idiopathic constipation. Methods. A retrospective study was conducted of the first cohort of patients affected with faecal incontinence and referred to our centre for Peristeen (Ⓒ) transanal irrigation treatment between January 2010 and December 2012. Patients with neurogenic bowel disturbance were excluded. A previously described and validated faecal continence scoring system was used to assess bowel function and social problems before and after treatment with Peristeen (Ⓒ) . Results. 13 patients were referred for Peristeen (Ⓒ) transanal irrigation during the study period. Mean time of using Peristeen (Ⓒ)   was 12.6 months (±0.6 months) and mean length of follow-up was 21.2 months (±0.9 months). All patients were noted to have an improvement in their faecal continence score, with a mean improvement from 9.7 ± 1.4 to 14.8 ± 2.7 (P = 0.0008) and a reduction in episodes of soiling and increasing in quality of life scores. Conclusion. In this initial study, Peristeen (Ⓒ) appears to be a safe and effective bowel management system, which improves bowel function and quality of life in children affected with faecal incontinence as a result of chronic idiopathic constipation, Hirschsprung's disease, and anorectal malformations.

Epidemiology of chronic constipation in adults

Chronic constipation is a common gastrointestinal motility disorder worldwide, having a significant impact on quality of life and affecting both physical and emotional health. The development of economy and the improvement in living standards have led to an increase in the incidence of constipation, which has aroused the concern of the medical staff and patients. At present, there have been only scattered data about chronic constipation in adults. This review aims to elucidate the epidemiology of chronic constipation in adults.

Early-life factors associated with pediatric functional constipation

OBJECTIVE

This multicenter prospective study aimed to establish possible risk factors for functional constipation (FC) in the first year of life.

METHODS

At the infant's age of 3, 6, and 12 months, parents of all included infants completed 2 questionnaires: one about the presence of FC and the other screened the possible risk factors for FC. Parents of 465 infants completed the questionnaires at 3 and 6 months and of 402 infants at 12 months of life.

RESULTS

According to the Rome III criteria, FC was found in 11.6% of the infants at 3 months, in 13.7% at 6 months, and in 10.7% at 12 months after birth. Family history of atopy was present in 38.8% and 45.3% of infants with constipation at 3 and 6 months (P = 0.04 and P = 0.02, respectively), but no significant association was found at 12 months (P = 0.80). Breast-feeding was significantly related to a normal evacuation pattern at 3 months (P = 0.05), but not at 6 and 12 months (P = 0.12 and P = 0.9, respectively). Acetaminophen and female sex appeared to be risk factors for FC at 12 months. After the adjustment for all analyzed variables, FC in infants was significantly associated with the use of acetaminophen (odds ratio 6.98, 95% confidence interval 0.82-13.50).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results confirmed that breast-feeding is a protective factor for FC in the first 3 months of life and that the female sex is at risk to have FC. We found that the use of acetaminophen was associated with a higher incidence of FC in the first year of life.

Chronic constipation

The lack of information about management of chronic constipation in children amidst general physicians has necessitated this review. A literature search in PubMed was conducted with regard to epidemiology, clinical features, investigation and management of chronic constipation in children. English language studies published over the last 20 y were considered and relevant information was extracted. Constipation is a common problem among children; the commonest cause is functional (95 %). An elaborate history and thorough physical examination are only essential things required to make a diagnosis of functional constipation. Management consists of disimpaction, followed by maintenance therapy with oral laxative, dietary modification and toilet training. A regular follow-up with slow tapering of laxative is the must for effective treatment. Early withdrawal of laxative is the commonest cause of recurrence.

Yield and cost of performing screening tests for constipation in children

BACKGROUND

Chronic constipation is one of the most common reasons for pediatric outpatient visits. Clinical guidelines recommend that the work-up for chronic refractory constipation include thyroid function tests, celiac serology, and measurement of calcium and lead levels. Data to justify routine screening of constipated children using these laboratory tests are lacking.

OBJECTIVES

To study the prevalence of celiac disease, hypothyroidism, hypercalcemia and lead poisoning in children with chronic constipation; and to estimate the health care costs of applying the guideline recommendations.

METHOD

Charts of constipated children from 2007 to 2011 were reviewed for the present retrospective cohort study. Results and costs of thyroid function tests, celiac panel, total immunoglobulin (Ig) A, and determination of lead and calcium levels were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 7472 children (mean age 7.9 years; 3908 female) were evaluated: 1731 patients were screened for celiac antibodies; 55 had elevated tissue transglutaminase IgA levels and 29 had biopsy-positive celiac disease. Only three celiac patients had constipation as the sole presenting symptom; 1703 patients were screened for total IgA levels; 55 had IgA deficiency and two had biopsy-positive celiac disease; 2332 had free T4 and⁄or thyroid-stimulating hormone levels; and 14 had hypothyroidism. Only two patients had constipation as the sole presenting symptom; 4651 patients had calcium levels measured, 10 of whom had high levels but normal repeat values. Three patients had normal lead levels. The mean cost per patient was USD$1,014. Total screening cost for all patients was USD$4.7 million.

CONCLUSION

Constipation alone did not increase the likelihood of celiac disease or hypothyroidism above the population prevalence. No benefit of screening for hypercalcemia was found. High health care costs were associated with the use of screening tests for organic constipation.

Impact of functional constipation on health-related quality of life in preschool children and their families in Xi'an, China

Aim

Functional constipation (FC) is one of the common diseases among children. The aim of this study was to investigate the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in preschool children diagnosed with FC and the impact of the condition on affected families.

Methods

In this cross-sectional, case-control study, 152 children aged 3–6 years with FC, 176 healthy children aged 3–6 years without FC, and their primary caregivers were selected. Chinese versions of the PedsQL^TM 4.0 Generic Core Scale and the Family Impact Module (FIM) were used to assess childhood HRQOL and the impact of FC on family members, respectively. HRQOL scores were compared between children with FC and healthy children. In addition, a multiple step-wise regression with demographic variables of children and their caregivers, family economic status, duration and symptoms of FC, as independent variables, was used to determine factors that influenced HRQOL in children and had impacted caregivers.

Results

Scores of physical, emotional, social and school functions, and summary scales were significantly lower in children with FC than in healthy children (p < 0.05). Physical, emotional, social, cognitive, and communication scores for caregivers, as well as daily activities and relationships for families of children with FC, were significantly lower than those of caregivers and families with healthy children (p < 0.05). Children’s ages, duration of FC, symptoms of FC, the child-caregiver relationship, family economic status, and caregiver education level emerged as the main factors influencing HRQOL in children, caregivers, and family members.

Conclusions

FC had a significant impact on HRQOL of affected children and their caregivers, as well as their family functions. Social characteristics of children and caregivers, duration and symptoms of FC and family economic status significantly affected HRQOL of children and caregivers, as well as family functions of children with FC.