Relationship between gut-specific autonomic testing and bowel dysfunction in spinal cord injury patients

Region-specific remodeling of the enteric nervous system and enteroendocrine cells in the colon of spinal cord injury patients

Patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) suffer from major bowel dysfunction, whose exact pathophysiology, particularly the involvement of the enteric nervous system or epithelial dysfunction is poorly understood. Herein, we aimed to characterize the mucosal biopsies of the right and left colon in SCI patients vs controls (CT): (1) remodeling of key enteric neurotransmitters, (2) remodeling of enteroendocrine cells, and (3) mucosal inflammation compared to those in controls. In SCI, mucosal ACh concentration was lower in the right colon as compared to CT, but no change was observed in the left colon, and AChE expression was lower in both the right and left colons than in CT. While the VIP concentration was similar in the right and left colons, VIP mRNA expression was increased in the right colon and decreased in the left colon, in SCI patients as compared to CT. Interestingly, 5-HT concentration was reduced in the left colon but not in the right colon in SCI patients. Moreover, in SCI patients, as compared to CT, SERT mRNA expression was selectively increased in the left colon while TPH1 mRNA expression was increased in the right and left colons. Although mucosal TNFα and IL-1β mRNA expression did not significantly differ between SCI and CT groups, we identified a significant positive correlation between TNFα and IL-1β mRNA expression and left colon transit time in the SCI group. In conclusion, region-specific changes occur in the enteric neurotransmitter, serotonergic, and inflammatory pathways in the colon of SCI patients. The significant correlations between these pathways and clinical parameters in the left colon further set a scientific basis for designing therapeutic targets to improve colonic motor dysfunction in patients.Biobank information: Spinal cord injury patients: PHRC ConstiCAPE-clinical trial NCT02566746. Controls: Anosain-clinical trial NCT03054415 and biobank of the "Institut des Maladies de l'Appareil Digestif (IMAD)" registered under number DC-2008-402.

[Analysis of anorectal manometry data in central and peripheral neurological deseases: Review of the literature]

INTRODUCTION

Peripheral or central neurological deseases are providers of anorectal disorders of variable clinical expression (constipation, dyschezia, faecal incontinence (FI)…). Anorectal manometry (ARM) participates in their exploration to determine the underlying mechanisms, guide and optimize treatments. The objective of this work was to determine if there is a pattern of ARM data in neurological populations.

MATERIALS ET METHODS

Literature review from PubMed, Cochrane and Google scholar databases, using the following keywords: parkinsonian disorders; parkinson's disease; multiple slcerosis; neurolog*; spinal cord injury; spina bifida occulta; stroke; pudendal; endometriosis; peripheral nervous system diseases. 196 articles were isolated and finally 45 retained after reading the title and the abstract.

RESULTS

Data comparison was difficult due to the heterogeneity of techniques and thresholds used. In central lesions, resting and squeeze anal pressures were often altered. The presence of FI or constipation, the sex and the lesion level were factors influencing these data (low if complete injury, women or EDSS>5.5). In case of peripheral lesion, it is the anal tone and the contraction that varied the symptomatology. The sensory thresholds were variable regardless of the impairment.

CONCLUSION

This review did not identify a data pattern of ARM in central and peripheral neurological deseases. Gradual standardization of techniques and protocols will allow better comparison of data.

Neurogenic Bowel Dysfunction in Children and Adolescents

Neurogenic/neuropathic bowel dysfunction (NBD) is common in children who are affected by congenital and acquired neurological disease, and negatively impacts quality of life. In the past, NBD received less attention than neurogenic bladder, generally being considered only in spina bifida (the most common cause of pediatric NBD). Many methods of conservative and medical management of NBD are reported, including relatively recently Transanal Irrigation (TAI). Based on the literature and personal experience, an expert group (pediatric urologists/surgeons/gastroenterologists with specific experience in NBD) focused on NBD in children and adolescents. A statement document was created using a modified Delphi method. The range of causes of pediatric NBD are discussed in this paper. The various therapeutic approaches are presented to improve clinical management. The population of children and adolescents with NBD is increasing, due both to the higher survival rate and better diagnosis. While NBD is relatively predictable in producing either constipation or fecal incontinence, or both, its various effects on each patient will depend on a wide range of underlying causes and accompanying comorbidities. For this reason, management of NBD should be tailored individually with a combined multidisciplinary therapy appropriate for the status of the affected child and caregivers.

Transcutaneous Neuromodulation at ST36 (Zusanli) is More Effective than Transcutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation in Treating Constipation

BACKGROUND AND GOALS

Combined transcutaneous neuromodulation (TN) at acupoint ST36 (Zusanli) and TN at the posterior tibial nerve (PTN) has been reported effective in treating functional constipation. This study was designed to compare the effectiveness of TN between these 2 points.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighteen functional constipation patients (M/F: 9/9) were recruited to participate in a cross-over study with a 2-week TN at ST36 and a 2-week TN at PTN. A bowel movement diary, and the questionnaires of Patient Assessment of Constipation Symptom (PAC-SYM) and Constipation Quality of Life (PAC-QoL) were completed; anorectal manometry and spectral analysis of heart rate variability for assessing the autonomic function were performed.

RESULTS

(1) Both TN at ST36 and TN at PTN improved constipation-related symptoms (PAC-SYM scores on pre-TN vs. post-TN: 1.4±0.1 vs. 0.6±0.1 for ST36, 1.4±0.1 vs. 0.9±0.1 for PTN, both P≤0.001). (2) TN at ST36, but not TN at PTN, increased the number of weekly spontaneous bowel movements (0.9±0.2 pre-TN vs. 3.5±0.7 post-TN, P<0.001) and decreased the total PAC-QoL score. TN at ST36 was more potent than TN at PTN in improving the PAC-SYM score (decrement 0.8±0.1 vs. 0.5±0.1, P<0.05). (3) TN at ST36 rather than TN at PTN resulted in a reduction in sensation thresholds, including rectal distention for urge (134.1±14.3 mL pre-TN vs. 85.6±6.5 mL post-TN, P<0.01) and maximum tolerance (P<0.05). (4) Both TN at ST36 and TN at PTN significantly increased vagal activity and decreased sympathetic activity (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

TN at ST36 is more potent than TN at PTN in treating constipation and improving constipation-related symptoms and rectal sensation.

Neurogenic bowel dysfunction

The symptoms of neurogenic bowel dysfunction (NBD) comprise constipation and fecal incontinence. These have a major impact on quality of life and dignity. Bowel symptoms occur in the majority of patients with chronic neurological diseases like multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, and Parkinson’s disease. Management relies on obtaining a careful bowel history, including assessment of bowel function prior to the onset of neurological symptoms. Objective measures of NBD are available and important in terms of monitoring response for what are often intensely personal and difficult-to-elicit symptoms. Conservative management begins by establishing an effective and regular bowel regime by optimizing diet and laxative use. If this is insufficient, as seen in about half of patients, transanal irrigation has been shown to reduce NBD symptoms and improve quality of life. Failing that, there are more invasive surgical options available. This review aims to provide practical guidance for the clinician who encounters these patients, focusing on a stepwise approach to assessment, interventions, and monitoring.

Reduced colonic smooth muscle cholinergic responsiveness is associated with impaired bowel motility after chronic experimental high-level spinal cord injury

The mechanisms underlying bowel dysfunction after high-level spinal cord injury (SCI) are poorly understood. However, impaired supraspinal sympathetic and parasympathetic control is likely a major contributing factor. Disruption of the descending autonomic pathways traversing the spinal cord was achieved by a T3 complete spinal cord transection, and colonic function was examined in vivo and ex vivo four weeks post-injury. Total gastrointestinal transit time (TGTT) was reduced and contractility of the proximal and distal colon was impaired due to reduced M₃ receptor sensitivity. These data describe a clinically relevant model of bowel dysfunction after SCI.

Using Laser Doppler Imaging and Monitoring to Analyze Spinal Cord Microcirculation in Rat

Laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) is a noninvasive method for blood flow (BF) measurement, which makes it preferable for measuring microcirculatory alterations of the spinal cord. In this article, our goal was to use both Laser Doppler imaging and monitoring to analyze the change of BF after spinal cord injury. Both the laser Doppler image scanner and the probe/monitor were being employed to obtain each readout. The data of LDPI provided a local distribution of BF, which gave an overview of perfusion around the injury site and made it accessible for comparative analysis of BF among different locations. By intensely measuring the probing area over a period of time, a combined probe was used to simultaneously measure the BF and oxygen saturation of the spinal cord, showing overall spinal cord perfusion and oxygen supply. LDF itself has a few limitations, such as relative flux, sensitivity to movement, and biological zero signal. However, the technology has been applied in clinical and experimental study due to its simple setup and rapid measurement of BF.

Open surgery for haemorrhoids in persons with spinal cord injury

Study design

Pilot retrospective study on the outcome of open surgery for grade III and IV haemorrhoids in patients with SCI.

Objective

Haemorrhoids and anal fissures are common in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI). Grade I to III haemorrhoids are usually managed medically or by surgical ligation. Grade III and IV haemorrhoids are treated with surgical haemorrhoidectomy in the general population, but not in patients with SCI, most probably due to fear of complications.

Setting

Fondation Hopale, Berck-sur Mer, France.

Methods

The surgical database was searched for open haemorrhoidectomies performed between 2007 and 2016. Seventeen patients were included. There were mostly males with complete paraplegia, mean age: 50 years and mean time since injury: 15.9 years. Open haemorrhoidectomy (Milligan and Morgan) was performed for isolated haemorrhoids (n = 4), and combined with Leopold Bellan procedure (posterior anoplasty and internal sphincterotomy) for associated anal fissures (n = 13). Short-term follow-up was performed by the surgeon (post-operative weeks 2 and 6), long-term follow-up by telephone interview (mean 5.7 years, SD 1.9).

Results

At 6-weeks post-operative, no significant complications had occurred and all wounds had healed, however 1 patient had recurrence of anal fissure. At long-term follow-up, 75% of patients reported a significant improvement in anorectal symptoms. Recurrences were reported by 5 patients: 3 haemorrhoids (18%) and 2 anal fissures (25%). Anal incontinence occurred in 1 patient who required an anal plug. All patients maintained the same bowel programs as pre-operative.

Conclusions

Open surgery procedures were well tolerated and should be considered in persons with SCI.

[Assessment of severity of neurogenic bowel dysfunction in chronic patients with a simple 1-item questionnaire (PGI-S)]

INTRODUCTION

Bowel symptoms (constipation and incontinence) are frequent in patients with a neurologic disease, but rarely assessed in rehabilitation centres.

AIM

To study the prevalence of neurogenic bowel dysfunction (NBD) in those patients, and to assess its severity with the Patient Global Impression of Severity (PGI-S).

MATERIAL

Prospective study by questionnaires, with the Neurogenic Bowel Dysfunction Score (0-47) and the PGI-S, a 1-item questionnaire (absent, mild, moderate, severe) for the severity of the bowel symptoms, and the Bristol Stool Chart for stool consistency. All patients presenting a chronic (>2months) neurological disease were included.

RESULTS

Inclusion of 169 patients, 97 with spinal cord injury, 42 with multiple sclerosis and 30 with hemiplegia. In each population, prevalence of constipation was 67 %, 45 % and 17 %, of pelvic floor dyssynergia 82 %, 45 % and 27 %, and leakages (gas or stools) de 74 %, 48 % and 43 %, respectively. Moderate to severe bowel symptoms were seen in 61 % of spinal cord injury, 43 % of multiple sclerosis and 23 % of hemiplegic patients, with NBD scores of 11.9±6.5, 5.7±4.9 and 3.7±4.2, respectively (P<0.01). There was a significant relation between PGI-S and NBD score (P<0.01). Significant lower NBD scores were associated with normal stool consistency (Bristol type 3 or 4) (P<0.01). In case of severe bowel symptoms, the use of transanal irrigation was hampered by patients' motivation and acceptation, and their autonomy.

CONCLUSION

PGI-S and Bristol Stool Chart are reliable tools to assess the presence of bowel symptoms in clinical practice.

Gut symptoms in diabetics correlate with components of the rectoanal inhibitory reflex, but not with pudendal nerve motor latencies or systemic autonomic neuropathy

OBJECTIVE

Fecal incontinence (FI) occurs in up to 20% of diabetes mellitus (DM) patients. Rectoanal inhibitory reflex (RAIR) is an enteric anorectal reflex that reflects the integrity of mechanisms in the physiology of FI. We aimed to investigate whether diabetic patients with FI, not constipation, had prolongation of RAIR and altered gut-specific autonomic tone.

METHODS

In this prospective case-matched study 31 type I DM (19 FI and 12 constipation) and 42 type II DM (26 FI and 16 constipation). Another 21 participants were included as controls. Patients underwent the following assessments: cardiovagal autonomic tone (Modified Mayo Clinic composite autonomic severity score), rectal mucosal blood flow (RMBF) (assessment of gut-specific autonomic tone) and RAIR. Three phases of RAIR and the amplitude of maximal reflex relaxation were compared between groups. All participants completed symptom scores for FI and constipation.

RESULTS

RAIR recovery time back to resting pressure was slower in diabetic patients with FI than controls (8.7 s vs 3.6 s, P < 0.05) and was an independent variable correlating with symptoms of FI (P < 0.05). RAIR recovery time was correlated with RMBF (r = 0.58, P = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

RAIR is correlated with anorectal symptoms of FI and was associated with gut-specific autonomic neuropathy.

Does regular standing improve bowel function in people with spinal cord injury? A randomised crossover trial

STUDY DESIGN

A randomised crossover trial.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effects of a 6-week standing programme on bowel function in people with spinal cord injury.

SETTING

Community, Australia and the United Kingdom.

METHODS

Twenty community-dwelling people with motor complete spinal cord injury above T8 participated in a 16-week trial. The trial consisted of a 6-week stand phase and a 6-week no-stand phase separated by a 4-week washout period. Participants were randomised to one of two treatment sequences. Participants allocated to the Treatment First group stood on a tilt table for 30 min per session, five times per week for 6 weeks and then did not stand for the next 10 weeks. Participants allocated to the Control First group did the opposite: they did not stand for 10 weeks and then stood for 6 weeks. Participants in both groups received routine bowel care throughout the 16-week trial. Assessments occurred at weeks 0, 7, 10 and 17 corresponding with pre and post stand and no-stand phases. The primary outcome was Time to First Stool. There were seven secondary outcomes reflecting other aspects of bowel function and spasticity.

RESULTS

There were three dropouts leaving complete data sets on 17 participants. The mean (95% confidence interval) between-intervention difference for Time to First Stool was 0 min (-7 to 7) indicating no effect of regular standing on Time to First Stool.

CONCLUSION

Regular standing does not reduce Time to First Stool. Further trials are required to test the veracity of some commonly held assumptions about the benefits of regular standing for bowel function.

Peristeen anal irrigation as a substitute for the MACE procedure in children who are in need of reconstructive bladder surgery

INTRODUCTION

We evaluate the efficacy of the Peristeen (Coloplast A/S, Kokkedal, Denmark) transanal irrigation (TAI) system, as a stool cleansing mechanism, to gain stool continence in children who need reconstructive bladder surgery and have fecal incontinence.

METHODS

We prospectively evaluated children with neuropathic bladder and bowel dysfunction who were intended for reconstructive bladder surgery and the Malone antegrade continence enema (MACE) procedure. All patients were started on the Peristeen TAI system at least 3 months before surgery to assess their response. Each patient's bowel function, frequency of using the system, satisfaction (and that of their parents) and diaper independency were evaluated before and after reconstructive surgery.

RESULTS

We included 18 patients (11 female, 7 male) who were evaluated from April 2006 to the present. The mean age of the group was 7.6 years (range: 4-15). Fifteen patients (83.3%) showed complete dryness from stools. Of the 15 patients, 8 (53.3%) were able to be diaper-free, while 6 continued wearing diapers due to fear of soiling and 1 due to urinary incontinence. The patients underwent reconstructive bladder surgery and continued to use the Peristeen TAI system with the same results postoperatively. The main limitation of this study is the small number of patients included, although this is a very specific patient group.

CONCLUSION

Our initial results suggest that the Peristeen TAI system is a successful conservative substitute for the MACE procedure in children who require reconstructive bladder surgery.

Approach to fecal incontinence and constipation in older hospitalized patients

Although constipation and fecal incontinence are commonly encountered in older hospitalized patients, there is a paucity of clinical studies in this field. In this article we discuss the approach to and management of patients with these problems based on evidence and studies performed on patients in the ambulatory care setting, nursing home setting, and our experience. Our recommendations are applicable to older hospitalized patients. Successful management of these patients depends on identifying and treating underlying cause(s), such as infection, dietary factors, medication, or immobility-induced incontinence, constipation, or fecal impaction. For a hospitalized patient, a digital rectal examination should be performed to rule out fecal impaction and overflow incontinence. If there is no impaction but a weak anal sphincter, stool softeners or laxatives should be discontinued, as they cause diarrhea/fecal incontinence. In a patient with diarrhea/incontinence and suspected infection, management includes checking stool for Clostridium difficile toxin, E0157, ova and parasites, and culture. If the patient is on enteral nutrition, osmotic diarrhea-induced incontinence should be considered. Nursing care includes use of absorbent pads, special undergarments, anal hygiene, and skin care. Medications such as loperamide or diphenoxylate/atropine are useful for diarrhea with incontinence. Laxatives (eg, polyethylene glycol, lactulose), secretagogues (eg, lubiprostone), enemas, suppositories, and timed toileting assistance may be effective for constipation. Despite appropriate management, older hospitalized patients may remain incontinent because of dementia, immobility, or comorbid issues. Treatment should be tailored to the underlying mechanism(s) and needs of each patient.

An evidence-based review of aging of the body systems following spinal cord injury

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review.

OBJECTIVE

To systematically review evidence on aging of the body systems after spinal cord injury (SCI).

SETTING

Toronto, Ontario and Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

METHODS

Electronic databases (MEDLINE/PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE and PsycINFO), were searched for studies published between 1980 and 2009. The search was augmented by reviewing the reference lists of relevant papers. Non-intervention studies that were longitudinal or cross-sectional with able-bodied controls that were at minimum matched on chronological age were included for review. Levels of evidence were assigned to the study design using a modified Sackett scale.

RESULTS

Of the 74 studies selected for inclusion, 16 were longitudinal in design. The hypothesis that SCI represents a model for premature aging is supported by a large proportion of level 5 evidence for the cardiovascular and endocrine systems, level 2, 4 and 5 evidence for the musculoskeletal system, and limited level 5 evidence for the immune system. Only a few level 4 and 5 studies for the respiratory system were found. The evidence on the genitourinary system, gastrointestinal system, and for skin and subcutaneous tissues provide level 4 and 5 evidence that premature aging may not be occurring. The evidence on the nervous system does not provide evidence of premature aging as a result of SCI.

CONCLUSIONS

Premature aging appears to occur in some systems after SCI. Additional longitudinal studies are required to confirm these findings.

Transanal irrigation in myelomeningocele children: an alternative, safe and valid approach for neurogenic constipation

STUDY DESIGN

A total of 60 children with myelomeningocele referred to Spina Bifida Center of Rome (31 boys and 29 girls; aged 8-17 years) were treated with transanal irrigation for three months.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether transanal irrigation is a valid and alternative approach for neurogenic constipation in children with myelomeningocele.

METHODS

A questionnaire on bowel disturbances, quality of life and side effects was completed before the beginning and at the termination of the study.

SETTING

Italy.

RESULTS

About 60% (36/60) of patients reported relief from constipation and 75% (12/16) for fecal incontinence. Wheelchair-bound and walking patients showed same high improvement of bowel habit. Mean (s.d.) scores before and after the study were: neurogenic bowel dysfunction total score: 17.5 (5.2) versus 8.5 (4.3) (P<0.001); digital stimulation of anorectum: 4.2 (2.8) versus 1.3 (2.5) (P<0.01); frequency of fecal incontinence: 5.5 (1.2) versus 1.3 (1.7) (P<0.01) and degree of general satisfaction: 3.0 (2.4) versus 7.7 (1.5) (P<0.001).We observed a reduction of urinary tract infections during the course of treatment: 14 total urinary tract infections (9 caused by Escherichia coli) before versus 6 (3) during treatment (P<0.01).

CONCLUSION

Transanal irrigation in children with myelomeningocele is an alternative and relatively safe approach for managing neurogenic constipation; in fact, it improves bowel disturbances, quality of life and seems to reduce the risk of urinary tract infections.