Sacral nerve stimulation allows for decreased antegrade continence enema use in children with severe constipation

Review article: Management of the child with refractory constipation

BACKGROUND

Caring for children with constipation refractory to conventional treatment can be challenging and management practices vary widely.

AIMS

To review recent advances in the evaluation and treatment of children with refractory constipation and to propose an algorithm that incorporates the latest evidence and our institutional experience.

METHODS

We performed a literature review on diagnostic tests and treatment options for children with refractory constipation.

RESULTS

Evaluation of a child with refractory constipation seeks to better understand factors contributing to an individual child's presentation. Anorectal manometry evaluating for a rectal evacuation disorder and colonic manometry evaluating for colonic dysmotility can guide subsequent treatment. For the child who has not responded to conventional treatment, a trial of newer medications like linaclotide can be helpful. Transanal irrigation offers a safe and effective alternative for families able to administer daily rectal treatment. Despite mixed evidence in children, pelvic floor biofeedback therapy can help some children with pelvic floor dyssynergia. For younger children unable to cooperate with pelvic floor therapy, or older children with refractory symptoms, internal anal sphincter botulinum toxin injection can be beneficial. Antegrade continence enema treatment can be effective for children with either normal colonic motility or segmental dysmotility. Sacral nerve stimulation is generally reserved for symptoms that persist despite antegrade continence enemas, particularly if faecal incontinence is prominent. In more severe cases, temporary or permanent colonic diversion and segmental colonic resection may be needed.

CONCLUSIONS

Recent advances offer hope for children with refractory constipation.

Strategies used for childhood chronic functional constipation: the SUCCESS evidence synthesis

Background

Up to 30% of children have constipation at some stage in their life. Although often short-lived, in one-third of children it progresses to chronic functional constipation, potentially with overflow incontinence. Optimal management strategies remain unclear.

Objective

To determine the most effective interventions, and combinations and sequences of interventions, for childhood chronic functional constipation, and understand how they can best be implemented.

Methods

Key stakeholders, comprising two parents of children with chronic functional constipation, two adults who experienced childhood chronic functional constipation and four health professional/continence experts, contributed throughout the research. We conducted pragmatic mixed-method reviews. For all reviews, included studies focused on any interventions/strategies, delivered in any setting, to improve any outcomes in children (0-18 years) with a clinical diagnosis of chronic functional constipation (excluding studies of diagnosis/assessment) included. Dual reviewers applied inclusion criteria and assessed risk of bias. One reviewer extracted data, checked by a second reviewer. Scoping review: We systematically searched electronic databases (including Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online, Excerpta Medica Database, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature) (January 2011 to March 2020) and grey literature, including studies (any design) reporting any intervention/strategy. Data were coded, tabulated and mapped. Research quality was not evaluated. Systematic reviews of the evidence of effectiveness: For each different intervention, we included existing systematic reviews judged to be low risk of bias (using the Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for Systematic Reviews), updating any meta-analyses with new randomised controlled trials. Where there was no existing low risk of bias systematic reviews, we included randomised controlled trials and other primary studies. The risk of bias was judged using design-specific tools. Evidence was synthesised narratively, and a process of considered judgement was used to judge certainty in the evidence as high, moderate, low, very low or insufficient evidence. Economic synthesis: Included studies (any design, English-language) detailed intervention-related costs. Studies were categorised as cost-consequence, cost-effectiveness, cost-utility or cost-benefit, and reporting quality evaluated using the consensus health economic criteria checklist. Systematic review of implementation factors: Included studies reported data relating to implementation barriers or facilitators. Using a best-fit framework synthesis approach, factors were synthesised around the consolidated framework for implementation research domains.

Results

Stakeholders prioritised outcomes, developed a model which informed evidence synthesis and identified evidence gaps.

Scoping review

651 studies, including 190 randomised controlled trials and 236 primary studies, conservatively reported 48 interventions/intervention combinations.

Effectiveness systematic reviews

studies explored service delivery models (n = 15); interventions delivered by families/carers (n = 32), wider children's workforce (n = 21), continence teams (n = 31) and specialist consultant-led teams (n = 42); complementary therapies (n = 15); and psychosocial interventions (n = 4). One intervention (probiotics) had moderate-quality evidence; all others had low to very-low-quality evidence. Thirty-one studies reported evidence relating to cost or resource use; data were insufficient to support generalisable conclusions. One hundred and six studies described implementation barriers and facilitators.

Conclusions

Management of childhood chronic functional constipation is complex. The available evidence remains limited, with small, poorly conducted and reported studies. Many evidence gaps were identified. Treatment recommendations within current clinical guidelines remain largely unchanged, but there is a need for research to move away from considering effectiveness of single interventions. Clinical care and future studies must consider the individual characteristics of children.

Study registration

This study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42019159008.

Funding

This award was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme (NIHR award ref: 128470) and is published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 28, No. 5. See the NIHR Funding and Awards website for further award information.

Sacral Nerve Stimulation in Children with Medically Refractory Fecal Incontinence or Severe Constipation

INTRODUCTION

The goal of this study was to evaluate outcomes in patients treated with sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) for medically refractory fecal incontinence or severe constipation.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of all patients treated with SNS after failed medical management at a single center between 9/1/2015 and 6/30/2022. Demographic and clinical data was extracted from the electronic medical record. Rates of involuntary bowel movements were evaluated using a bowel severity score questionnaire and compared pre- and post-SNS using McNemar and McNemar-Bowker tests.

RESULTS

70 patients underwent SNS placement. The median age was 12.8 years (IQR 8.6-16.0) and 61.4% were male. The most common diagnosis was idiopathic constipation (67.1%), followed by anorectal malformation (15.7%), and others. 43 patients had severity scores recorded both pre- and at least 90 days post-SNS insertion. The rates of daytime and nighttime involuntary bowel movements were significantly different pre-compared to post-SNS placement (p = 0.038 and p = 0.049, respectively). The rate of daytime and nighttime fecal continence increased from 44% to 58.1% and 53.5%-83.7%, respectively. The rate of at least weekly daytime and nighttime fecal incontinence decreased from 48.8% to 18.7% and 34.9%-7.0%, respectively. Minor pain/neurological symptoms occurred in 40% of patients, while 5.7% developed a wound infection. Further surgery for the SNS was required in 40% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

SNS placement can be an effective treatment for medically refractory fecal incontinence. Minor complications and the need for further procedures are common, while more serious complications like wound infections are rare.

TYPE OF STUDY

Retrospective Cohort Study.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 3.

Functional Fecal Incontinence in Children: Epidemiology, Pathophysiology, Evaluation, and Management

ABSTRACT

Functional fecal incontinence (FI) is a worldwide problem in children and comprises constipation-associated FI and nonretentive FI. Irrespective of pathophysiology, both disorders impact negatively on the psychological well-being and quality of life of affected children. A thorough clinical history and physical examination using the Rome IV criteria are usually sufficient to diagnose these conditions in most children. Evolving investigations such as high-resolution anorectal and colonic manometry have shed new light on the pathophysiology of functional FI. Although conventional interventions such as toilet training and laxatives successfully treat most children with constipation-associated FI, children with nonretentive FI need more psychologically based therapeutic options. Intrasphincteric injection of botulinum toxin, transanal irrigation and, in select cases, surgical interventions have been used in more resistant children with constipation-associated FI.

Comparison of antegrade continence enema treatment and sacral nerve stimulation for children with severe functional constipation and fecal incontinence

BACKGROUND

To compare antegrade continence enema (ACE) treatment and sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) in children with intractable functional constipation (FC) and fecal incontinence (FI).

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of children 6-18 years old with FC and FI treated with either ACE or SNS at our institution. We recorded symptoms at baseline, 6 months, 12 months, 24 months, and their most recent visit after starting treatment. We compared improvement in FI, bowel movement (BM) frequency, abdominal pain, laxative use, and complications. Patients were contacted to evaluate perceived benefit using the Glasgow Children's Benefit Inventory.

KEY RESULTS

We included 23 patients treated with ACE (52% female, median age 10 years) and 19 patients treated with SNS (74% female, median age 10 years). Improvement in FI was greater with SNS than ACE at 12 months (92.9% vs 57.1%, P = .03) and 24 months (100% vs 57.1%, P = .02). Improvement in BM frequency was greater with ACE, and children were more likely to discontinue laxatives at all follow-up time points (all P < .05). Improvement in abdominal pain was greater with ACE at the most recent visit (P < .05). Rate of complications requiring surgery was similar between groups (26.3% vs 21.7%). Benefit was reported in 83.3% and 100% of ACE and SNS groups, respectively (NS).

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

Although both ACE and SNS can lead to durable improvement in children with FC and FI, SNS appears more effective for FI and ACE more effective in improving BM frequency and abdominal pain and in discontinuation of laxatives.

Assessment of Needs in Children Suffering From Refractory Non-neurogenic Urinary and Fecal Incontinence and Their Caregivers' Needs and Attitudes Toward Alternative Therapies (SNM, TENS)

Background: Non-neurogenic urinary and fecal incontinence (UI, FI) affects approximately 6% of North American children with 1% of cases becoming refractory (nonresponsive to standard therapies). Incontinence has major potential long-term physiological and psychological implications for patients and their families. While Sacral Neuromodulation (SNM) and Transcutaneous Nerve Stimulation (TENS) are alternative therapies available for the treatment of refractory UI/FI, these are not approved for use in children in Canada. The present study assessed participants' perception of current treatments, incontinence burden, and attitudes toward novel therapies in a single pediatric institution. Methods: Multiple validated questionnaires including Dysfunctional Voiding Scoring System (DVSS), Bristol Stool Chart (BSC), Pediatric Incontinence measurement (PinQ), and Time-Driven Activity Based Costing were used to perform a needs assessment for patients with non-neurogenic refractory incontinence, and to determine patients' and caregivers' attitudes toward alternative therapies. Results: 75% of patients and 89% of caregivers reported a moderate to severe impact of incontinence on QoL with diminished social interactions among the primary concerns. Caregivers were frustrated with current treatments and were open to trying alternative therapies (SNM and TENS), which, at least in the case of SNM, seems to be less expensive, possibly less burdensome and more effective than current surgical options. Conclusion: Pediatric refractory UI/FI has a large impact on patients' and caregivers' QoL and alternative therapies with the potential to improve QoL of patients and caregivers should be further investigated as a substitute for surgery.

A Pilot Study of Non-invasive Sacral Nerve Stimulation in Treatment of Constipation in Childhood and Adolescence

Background/Aims: Constipation shows both, a high prevalence and a significant impact. However, it is often perceived as minor and treatment choices are limited. The neuromodulation approach is a valuable option to be considered. This study assesses the use of non-invasive sacral nerve stimulation to reduce constipation in children. Methods: Between February 2013 and May 2015, pediatric patients with chronic constipation were treated with this non-invasive neuromodulation procedure, adapted from classical sacral nerve stimulation. A stimulation device attached to adhesive electrodes on the lower abdomen and back generated an electrical field with a stable frequency of 15 Hz via variable stimulation intensity (1-10 V). The effect of therapy was evaluated in routine check-ups and by specialized questionnaires. Results: The study assessed non-invasive sacral nerve stimulation in 17 patients (9 boys, 8 girls, mean age 6.5 years). They underwent stimulation with 6-9 V for a mean of 11 h per day (range 0.5-24 h) over a mean of 12.7 weeks. Improvement of constipation was achieved in more than half of the patients (12/17) and sustained in almost half of these patients (5/12). Complications were minor (skin irritation, electrode dislocation). Conclusions: Non-invasive sacral nerve stimulation appears to be effective in achieving improvement in pediatric patients with chronic constipation. As an additional external neuromodulation concept, this stimulation may represent a relevant addition to currently available therapeutic options. Further studies are needed to confirm these results.

Systematic review: sacral nerve stimulation in the treatment of constipation and fecal incontinence in children with emphasis in anorectal malformation

BACKGROUND

Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) is frequently used for constipation and fecal incontinence in the adult literature. The purpose of this study is to perform a systemic review of the literature for SNS for constipation and fecal incontinence in children with emphasis in anorectal malformations.

METHODS

Systematic literature review was conducted to include all SNS studies in patients < 19 years of age. Studies were separated into those for (1) constipation, (2) bowel and bladder dysfunction, and (3) anorectal malformations.

RESULTS

28 articles were included in the review: (1) 12 constipation (269 patients) and (2) 16 bowel and bladder dysfunction (441 patients). Some studies overlapped groups, as they included some patients with anorectal malformations (4 articles and 29 patients). Constipation studies included slow transit and retention constipation and showed varying degrees of improvement. For bowel and bladder dysfunction, studies also reported varying degrees of improvement using different measures (number of bowel movements per day, transit times, and soiling improvement). There was no specific description of the results in anorectal malformation (ARM) cases and also information regarding specific ARM type, sacral ratio, or presence of tethered cord.

CONCLUSIONS

SNS for constipation and urinary problems seems to be promising. Data are limited and heterogeneous, and SNS cannot be definitively encouraged or discouraged in patients with ARM, based on current studies. Future studies should include more objective measurements of bowel outcomes and specify outcomes related to patients with anorectal malformations including information regarding their specific malformation, sacral ratio, and presence of tethered cord. Complications' rate is considerable high.

Constipation: Beyond the Old Paradigms

Constipation is a common problem in children. Although most children respond to conventional treatment, symptoms persist in a minority. For children with refractory constipation, anorectal and colonic manometry testing can identify a rectal evacuation disorder or colonic motility disorder and guide subsequent management. Novel medications used in adults with constipation are beginning to be used in children, with promising results. Biofeedback therapy and anal sphincter botulinum toxin injection can be considered for children with a rectal evacuation disorder. Surgical management of constipation includes the use of antegrade continence enemas, sacral nerve stimulation, and colonic resection.

Gastrointestinal Neuropathies: New Insights and Emerging Therapies

The bewildering complexity of the enteric nervous system makes it susceptible to develop a wide array of motility disorders, collectively called enteric neuropathies. These gastrointestinal conditions are among the most challenging to manage, mainly given poor characterization of their etiopathophysiology and outcomes. Not surprisingly, therefore, targeted or curative therapies for enteric neuropathies are lacking and management is largely symptomatic. Nonetheless, recent advances in neurogastroenterology have witnessed improvements in established strategies, such as intestinal transplantation and the emergence of new treatments including novel drugs, electrical pacing, and manipulation of fecal microbiota, as well as stem cell and gene therapy.

Sacral nerve stimulation for constipation and fecal incontinence in children: Long-term outcomes, patient benefit, and parent satisfaction

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the long-term efficacy of sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) in children with constipation and describe patient benefit and parent satisfaction.

METHODS

Using a prospective patient registry, we identified patients <21 years old with constipation treated with SNS for >2 years. We compared symptoms, medical treatment, PedsQL Gastrointestinal Symptom Scale (GSS), Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life Scale (FIQL), and Fecal Incontinence Severity Index (FISI) before SNS and at follow-up. We contacted parents to administer the Glasgow Children's Benefit Inventory (GCBI) and a parent satisfaction questionnaire.

KEY RESULTS

We included 25 children (52% male, median age 10 years): 16 had functional constipation, six anorectal malformation, two tethered spinal cord, and one Hirschsprung's disease. Defecation frequency did not change after SNS but patients reporting fecal incontinence decreased from 72% to 20% (P<.01) and urinary incontinence decreased from 56% to 28% (P=.04). Patients using laxatives decreased from 64% to 44% (ns) and patients using antegrade enemas decreased from 48% to 20% (P=.03). GSS, most FIQL domains, and FISI were improved at follow-up. Six (24%) patients had complications requiring further surgery. Of the 16 parents contacted, 15 (94%) parents indicated positive health-related benefit and all would recommend SNS to other families.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

Sacral nerve stimulation is a promising and durable treatment for children with refractory constipation, and appears particularly effective in decreasing fecal incontinence. Although a quarter of patients experienced complications requiring additional surgery, nearly all parents reported health-related benefit. Future studies to identify predictors of treatment response and complications are needed.