Anal plugs and retrograde colonic irrigation are helpful in fecal incontinence or constipation

A Structured Training for Trans Anal Irrigation in Pediatric Patients Improves Outcomes and Reduce Failures: Results of an Interventional Multicenter Prospective Study

BACKGROUND

Continence issues due to organic causes including previous colorectal surgery or neurological issues might benefit from Transanal irrigation (TAI) that proved to be highly effective but with a number of limitations including a relatively high discontinuation rates. Our study was aimed at evaluating the efficacy of an advanced protocol tailored to each patient to prevent dropout and increase satisfaction, independence, and quality of life.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a prospective, interventional, multicenter, nonrandomized study involving children aged 4-18 years with bowel dysfunction unresponsive to conventional treatments who required TAI. TAI was performed in accordance to the best standards of care with a total irrigation volume that was determined based on low emission X-Ray barium enemas performed at the very beginning of the study. All patients underwent training and assessments of continence, patients' perspectives and quality of life were performed at different timepoints from enrollment (T0) up to 6 months since TAI was introduced (T3).

RESULTS

A total of 78 patients were enrolled. Male to female ratio was 1.4:1. Mean age at enrollment was 106.1 ± 42.8 months. Discontinuation was reported by 3 patients (3.8 %). Continence, satisfaction and a number of other outcome measures increased from baseline (T0) to the last visit (T3). In particular, mean Rintala total score increased linearly from 7.8 to 14.8 during the study period (T0 to T3 timepoints). On a multivariate analysis, the only parameter that proved to be inversely associated with continence as well as with other outcome measures was the use of laxatives at enrollment and during the study.

CONCLUSIONS

This study has demonstrated the high efficacy of this innovative patient-tailored TAI protocol across all assessed scores. Of note, given the negative impact of laxatives, our findings suggest limiting their use in this patient population to further increase the efficacy of the procedure.

Association Between Quality of Life and Neurogenic Bowel Symptoms by Bowel Management Program in Spina Bifida

OBJECTIVE

To compare differences in bowel-specific quality of life (QOL), overall qQOL, and neurogenic bowel dysfunction (NBD) severity by bowel management program in patients with spina bifida (SB).

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cross-sectional study of patients ≥12 years old at our multidisciplinary SB center who completed both a modified Peristeen NBD questionnaire (assessing bowel symptom severity and bowel-specific QOL) and the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Pediatric Global Health questionnaire (assessing overall QOL). Nested, multivariable models were fit for associations between outcomes and bowel management program (enemas, conservative management, and none).

RESULTS

A total of 173 patients, 56.1% female and 64.6% with myelomeningocele, were included in our analysis. Median age was 18.2 years old. Patients reported using enemas (n = 42), conservative management (n = 63), and no bowel program (n = 68). When adjusting for covariates, there was no significant association between bowel-specific QOL nor overall QOL across bowel management programs. However, the use of conservative management compared to enemas was associated with worse bowel symptoms severity (adjusted beta=2.58, 95%CI=[0.09,5.06]). Additionally, greater bowel symptom severity was significantly associated with lower overall QOL (adjusted beta=-0.33, 95%CI=[-0.57,-0.10]).

CONCLUSION

NBD symptom severity in SB is more strongly associated with QOL than the individual bowel program being utilized. Our findings suggest that different degrees of NBD require different invasiveness of bowel programs, but it is the outcome of the bowel management program and not the specific program itself that is most associated with QOL.

Relief from behind: enemas, the back door enforcement to help treating chronic constipation in adults

INTRODUCTION

Chronic constipation is a frequent symptom encountered in the daily clinical practice. The treatment of this condition mainly relies on the use of laxatives. However, patients' satisfaction with this approach is limited, and alternative measures are often added to the treatment. Among these, particularly frequent worldwide is the use of enemas, even though literature data on its scientific validity are scarce.

AREAS COVERED

In this article, by an extensive online search of Medline (through PubMed), Scopus, Cochrane CENTRAL, EMBASE, and the Science Citation Index, the available literature data on the use of enemas in adult patients with chronic constipation, also in the perspective of available guidelines on treatment of this pathological condition, were analyzed.

EXPERT OPINION

Although the use of enemas remains a frequently employed method and it is considered as useful by many physicians as an adjunctive support for the treatment of chronic constipation in adults, this practice is not substantiated by rigorous scientific data, and some studies are available only for specific instances (fecal impaction, transanal irrigation). Thus, waiting for more robust scientific data, enemas treatment should be carried out on an individual patient's basis, according to the experience of the caring physicians.

Faecal incontinence in adults

Faecal incontinence, which is defined by the unintentional loss of solid or liquid stool, has a worldwide prevalence of ≤7% in community-dwelling adults and can markedly impair quality of life. Nonetheless, many patients might not volunteer the symptom owing to embarrassment. Bowel disturbances, particularly diarrhoea, anal sphincter trauma (obstetrical injury or previous surgery), rectal urgency and burden of chronic illness are the main risk factors for faecal incontinence; others include neurological disorders, inflammatory bowel disease and pelvic floor anatomical disturbances. Faecal incontinence is classified by its type (urge, passive or combined), aetiology (anorectal disturbance, bowel symptoms or both) and severity, which is derived from the frequency, volume, consistency and nature (urge or passive) of stool leakage. Guided by the clinical features, diagnostic tests and therapies are implemented stepwise. When simple measures (for example, bowel modifiers such as fibre supplements, laxatives and anti-diarrhoeal agents) fail, anorectal manometry and other tests (endoanal imaging, defecography, rectal compliance and sensation, and anal neurophysiological tests) are performed as necessary. Non-surgical options (diet and lifestyle modification, behavioural measures, including biofeedback therapy, pharmacotherapy for constipation or diarrhoea, and anal or vaginal barrier devices) are often effective, especially in patients with mild faecal incontinence. Thereafter, perianal bulking agents, sacral neuromodulation and other surgeries may be considered when necessary.

Prospective Evaluation of Transanal Irrigation With a Validated Pediatric Neurogenic Bowel Dysfunction Scoring System

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the efficacy of transanal irrigation (TAI) in pediatric patients with neurogenic bowel dysfunction (NBD) who were treatment naïve to catheter-based TAI using Peristeen device (Coloplast).

METHODS

Prospective recruitment of patients with NBD who were unsatisfied with their bowel regimen or had no bowel regimen in place, were assessed using the neurogenic bowel dysfunction score (NBDS) before initiating treatment (Time 0) with Peristeen. NBDS scores were reassessed twice: within the first 6 months (Time 1) of initiation of Peristeen and again after greater than 6 months of usage with Peristeen (Time 2).

RESULTS

Over a 26-month period, 104 patients with NBD were enrolled. Mean age was 10.6 years ± 4.7 (range 3-18 years). The NBDS at Time 1 had an average reduction of 14 points from the original score. A similar trajectory was seen at Time 2, with an average reduction of 13 points from original score. There was a statistically significant decrease of 14 points, P < 0.001 at Time 1 and this response was sustained at Time 2 with a statistically significant decrease in scores from initiation by 13 points, P < 0.001. Improved patient satisfaction and quality of life with Peristeen was seen at Time 1 and Time 2.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that Peristeen can improve quality of life in pediatric patients with NBD. Significant improvement in NBDS occurred in our pediatric patients with NBD when initiated on Peristeen. Lower scores were seen at both Time 1 and Time 2, which indicated an improvement in their overall NBD.

Functional Constipation and Dyssynergic Defecation in Children

Defecation is a complex physiological process, which relies on intricate mechanisms involving the autonomic and somatic nervous system, the pelvic floor muscles, and the anal sphincter complex. Anorectal dysfunction may result in constipation, a bothersome defecation disorder that can severely affect daily lives of children and their families. In this review, we focus on different mechanisms underlying anorectal dysfunction and specific treatment options aimed at improving defecation dynamics in children with functional constipation.

Improving continence in children and young people with neurodisability: a systematic review and survey

BACKGROUND

Children and young people with neurodisability often need help to achieve socially acceptable bladder and bowel control. Approaches vary depending on whether or not the impairment results from spinal cord pathology that impairs motor control and sensation of the bladder and bowel. Currently, there is uncertainty about which interventions are effective.

OBJECTIVE

The objective was to summarise the available evidence on and current practice for improving continence in children and young people with neurodisability.

DESIGN

A systematic review of the effectiveness, cost-effectiveness and factors that modify intervention implementation, alongside a cross-sectional, online survey of current practice with health professionals, parent carers, school and care staff and young people with neurodisability.

RESULTS

Twelve databases were searched in the review, resulting in 5756 references; 71 studies (72 papers) were included in the analyses. Most of the evidence was for children with spinal cord pathology, which involved evaluations of pharmacological approaches and surgical techniques, whereas the evidence pertaining to those with non-spinal-cord-related pathology tended to be for behavioural interventions. The methodological quality of studies was rated as being moderate to poor. There were three robust qualitative studies about the experience of continence among children with spinal cord pathology. We found substantial heterogeneity across the interventions that we evaluated in terms of quality, study design and outcomes measured. No economic studies were found. The results were synthesised narratively and reported in text and tables. We did not find any eligible studies evaluating interventions using toilet and clothing adaptations in the review, although the survey highlighted that these types of interventions are frequently used and considered. In total, 949 people responded to the survey: 202 health professionals, 605 parent carers, 122 school and social care staff, and 20 young people. The survey results illustrated the different roles that professionals have in improving continence, highlighting the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to supporting children and young people and their families. Clinicians employ a range of assessments and interventions to improve continence or independent toileting, depending on the needs of the child.

LIMITATIONS

Quantitative studies in the review were not methodologically robust. The survey had a risk of response bias.

CONCLUSIONS

Our research found a dearth of good-quality evidence for many of the interventions currently in use, and no evidence of experiences of implementing interventions for children with non-spinal-cord-related pathology. There was also no evidence of cost-effectiveness of any of the interventions.

FUTURE WORK

There is a need to involve young people and families in the design of high-quality evaluative research for interventions that aim to improve continence. This is especially the case for children with autism and learning disability, who have been neglected in previous evaluative and qualitative research. We recommend better training for health, education and care professionals about toileting, informed by evidence and the lived experiences of children and their families. We recommend a joined-up multidisciplinary and holistic approach to improving continence to maximise independence, dignity and comfort. It is vital that children and young people with neurodisability have early access to regular, integrated assessment of their bladder and bowel health, and are fully supported with appropriate personalised treatment.

STUDY REGISTRATION

This study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42018100572.

FUNDING

This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 25, No. 73. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.

Transanal Irrigation for Neurogenic Bowel Disease, Low Anterior Resection Syndrome, Faecal Incontinence and Chronic Constipation: A Systematic Review

Transanal irrigation (TAI) has received increasing attention as a treatment option in patients with bowel dysfunction. This systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines and evaluates the effect of TAI in neurogenic bowel dysfunction (NBD), low anterior resection syndrome (LARS), faecal incontinence (FI) and chronic constipation (CC). The primary outcome was the effect of TAI on bowel function. Secondary outcomes included details on TAI, quality of life (QoL), the discontinuation rate, adverse events, predictive factors for a successful outcome, and health economics. A systematic search for articles reporting original data on the effect of TAI on bowel function was performed, and 27 eligible studies including 1435 individuals were included. Three randomised controlled trials, one non-randomised trial, and 23 observational studies were included; 70% of the studies were assessed to be of excellent or good methodological quality. Results showed an improvement in bowel function among patients with NBD, LARS, FI, and CC with some studies showing improvement in QoL. However, discontinuation rates were high. Side effects were common, but equally prevalent among comparative treatments. No consistent predictive factors for a successful outcome were identified. Results from this review show that TAI improves bowel function and potentially QoL; however, evidence remains limited.

Insert devices for faecal incontinence

BACKGROUND

Faecal incontinence (FI) affects 1-19% of the general population and carries significant physical and psychological morbidity. Treatment strategies vary greatly with respect to morbidity and efficacy and relatively little is known regarding the role of mechanical devices such as anal and vaginal inserts. This is an up-to-date systematic review of the use of these devices in the management of patients with FI.

METHODS

A systematic electronic search was performed of the Medline, Pubmed and Embase databases using the key words and/or MeSH 'anal plug', 'anal insert', 'vaginal insert' and 'faecal incontinence'. Only articles that reported clinical outcomes for these devices for FI in the English language were included. Review articles were excluded to avoid duplication of data.

RESULTS

Thirteen articles fulfilled the eligibility criteria. Two articles reported outcomes for the Eclipse vaginal insert and 11 articles reported on three types of anal inserts; the Coloplast 'Tulip' design (6), the Procon/ProTect device (2) and the Renew insert (3). When tolerated, both anal and vaginal inserts significantly improved continence, bowel function and quality of life where reported. Adverse effects included discomfort, leakage and slippage. Long-term compliance and benefit are yet to be determined.

CONCLUSIONS

Vaginal and anal inserts may be a useful treatment for FI. Better quality of evidence is needed to define its effectiveness.

Impact of Transanal Irrigation Device in the Management of Children With Fecal Incontinence and Constipation

OBJECTIVES

Children with fecal incontinence and constipation can be classified into 3 groups: neurogenic bowel dysfunction (NBD) related to spinal cord defects (NBD), refractory constipation (RC), or anorectal malformations (ARMs). The transanal irrigation (TAI) device (Peristeen) was approved in 2012 by the Food and Drug Administration. This system uses a pump rather than gravity to instill water as a colonic irrigant and uses balloon occlusion of the rectum. Our aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of TAI (Peristeen) in children who failed to respond to conservative measures for stool incontinence and constipation.

METHODS

Retrospective study of 147 patients prescribed TAI between January 2014 and January 2020. Data collected included demographics, prior bowel regimen, symptoms before and after, patient satisfaction scores, and NBD scores.

RESULTS

Of the 147 patients initiated, 114 remain active users (13 lost to follow-up and 20 discontinued use). Multiple bowel regimens including laxatives (n = 139), cone enema (n = 40), and cecostomy (n = 7) were tried previously. The majority of our patients (n = 85) have NBD, primarily spina bifida, followed by RC (n = 43), and ARM (n = 19). For all patient groups, there was significant improvement in symptoms of fecal incontinence and constipation (P ≤ 0.001). Abdominal pain was improved in the NBD and RC group, but not significantly in the ARM group.

CONCLUSIONS

We provide a single-center review of a large pediatric cohort using TAI (Peristeen) for management of fecal incontinence and constipation. Peristeen offered significant improvement in patients with NBD, RC, and ARM.

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.

Malone Antegrade Continence Enemas vs. Cecostomy vs. Transanal Irrigation-What Is New and How Do We Counsel Our Patients?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

No gold standard exists for managing neurogenic bowel dysfunction, specifically in individuals with spina bifida. Since the International Children's Continence Society published its consensus document on neurogenic bowel treatment in 2012, an increased focus on why we must manage bowels and how to improve our management has occurred. This review provides updated information for clinicians.

RECENT FINDINGS

A surge in research, mostly retrospective, has been conducted on the success and satisfaction of three types of management for neurogenic bowel. All three management techniques have relatively high success rates for fecal continence and satisfaction rates. Selection of which treatment to carry out still is debated among clinicians. Transanal irrigation is a safe and effective management option for neurogenic bowel that does not require surgery. Antegrade enemas can be carried out via cecostomy tube or Malone antegrade continence enema with similar fecal continence outcomes.

The Renew® anal insert for passive faecal incontinence: a retrospective audit of our use of a novel device

AIM

The Renew® anal insert is a recent treatment for patients who suffer from passive faecal incontinence (FI). Our aim was to assess the effectiveness of the insert and patients' satisfaction with it.

METHOD

A retrospective audit of patients who were treated with the Renew® anal insert was undertaken. The St Mark's Incontinence Score was used to evaluate clinical outcome. Renew® size, the number of inserts used per day and per week had also been recorded. Subjective assessment of symptoms, how beneficial Renew® was and how satisfied patients were with the device were all recorded. Major events and side effects were also noted.

RESULTS

Thirty patients received Renew® as a treatment for passive incontinence in 2016. The median St Mark's Incontinence Score was 15 (range 7-18) at baseline and 10 (range 2-18) at first follow-up (P < 0.0001) at a median of 11 (range 8-14) weeks. Eleven (37%) patients used the regular size and 19 (63%) the large size. Patients used an average of 1.67 inserts per day (range 1-3) on an average of 3.58 days per week (1-7). Three patients reported a deterioration in symptoms, seven (23%) had no change and 20 (67%) showed a significant improvement. Six patients (20%) did not like the device while 24 (80%) liked it. Seventeen patients (57%) wanted to continue this treatment in the long term.

CONCLUSION

The Renew® device seems to be an acceptable and effective therapeutic option for passive FI. Further work is needed to compare it with other treatments and establish its position in the treatment pathway.

PREDICTORS OF UNSUCCESSFUL OF TREATMENT FOR FECAL INCONTINENCE BIOFEEDBACK FOR FECAL INCONTINENCE IN FEMALE

BACKGROUND

Biofeedback is an effective method of treatment for fecal incontinence but there is controversy regarding factors that may be correlated with its effectiveness.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of biofeedback in the treatment of fecal incontinence, identifying the predictive factors for unsuccessful treatment.

METHODS

Consecutive female patients who had fecal incontinence and were treated with a full course of biofeedback were screened. The symptoms were evaluated using Cleveland Clinic incontinence (CCF) score before and six months after the completion of therapy. Patients had a satisfactory clinical response to biofeedback if the CCF score had decreased by more than 50% at six months (GI) and an unsatisfactory response if the CCF score did not decrease or if the score decreased by <50% (GII). The groups were compared with regard to age, score, anal resting and squeeze pressures and sustained squeeze pressure by manometry, history of vaginal delivery, number of vaginal deliveries, menopause, hysterectomy, and previous anorectal surgery.

RESULTS

Of 124 women were included, 70 (56%) in GI and 54 (44%) in GII. The median CCF score decreased significantly from 10 to 5 (P=0.00). FI scores were higher in GII. Patients from GII had more previous vaginal deliveries and previous surgeries. The mean sustained squeeze pressure was higher in GI. Patients from GI and GII had similar ages, number of vaginal deliveries, menopause, hysterectomy, anal pressures, and sphincter defects. The median sustained squeeze pressure increased significantly before and after biofeedback in GI.

CONCLUSION

Biofeedback therapy shows effective treatment with 50% reductions in FI score in half of patients. Factors associated with unsuccessful outcome include FI score ≥10, previous vaginal delivery, previous anorectal and/or colorectal surgery, and reduced mean sustained squeeze pressure.

Bowel management in children with spina bifida

Spina bifida is a birth defect that commonly causes bowel and bladder dysfunction in children with a significant negative impact on quality of life and emotional wellbeing. Fecal continence improves satisfaction and the quality of life of both children and their caretakers. Bowel management in children with spina bifida is hampered by limited controlled studies and variable practice within different institutions and subspecialists. The goals of a successful bowel management program in children with spina bifida consist of predictable bowel movements, social continence, and eventual independence. Treatment options range from conservative interventions such as diets and oral laxatives that modify stool consistency and transit, to trans-anal irrigations and antegrade continence enemas that facilitate predictable recto-sigmoid emptying and provide a greater degree of independence. In children, the treatment approach should be implemented in the context of the child's developmental age in order to allow for optimum social integration with their age-appropriate peers. We present a review of a stepwise approach to bowel management in children with spina bifida and the challenges related to the proposed treatment options.

Treatment possibilities for low anterior resection syndrome: a review of the literature

AIM

Up to 80% of patients after low anterior resection, experience (low) anterior resection syndrome (ARS/LARS). However, there is no standard treatment option currently available. This systemic review aims to summarize treatment possibilities for LARS after surgical treatment of rectal cancer in the medical literature.

METHODS

Embase, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library were searched using the terms anterior resection syndrome, low anterior resection, colorectal/rectal/rectum, surgery/operation, pelvic floor rehabilitation, biofeedback, transanal irrigation, sacral nerve stimulation, and tibial nerve stimulation. All English language articles presenting original patient data regarding treatment and outcome of LARS were included. We focused on the effects of different treatment modalities for LARS. The Jadad score was used to assess the methodological quality of trials. The quality scale ranges from 0 to 5 points, with a score ≤ 2 indicating a low quality report, and a score of ≥ 3 indicating a high quality report.

RESULTS

Twenty-one of 160 studies met the inclusion criteria, of which 8 were reporting sacral nerve stimulation, 6 were designed to determine pelvic floor rehabilitation, 3 studies evaluated the effect of transanal irrigation, 2-percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation, and the rest of the studies assessed probiotics and 5-HT₃ receptor antagonists for LARS in patients who had undergone rectal resection. All except one study were poor quality reports according to the Jadad score.

CONCLUSIONS

LARS treatment still carries difficulties because of a lack of well-conducted, randomized multicenter trials. Well-performed randomized controlled trials are needed.

Bowel management in children with spina bifida

Spina bifida is a birth defect that commonly causes bowel and bladder dysfunction in children with a significant negative impact on quality of life and emotional wellbeing. Fecal continence improves satisfaction and the quality of life of both children and their caretakers. Bowel management in children with spina bifida is hampered by limited controlled studies and variable practice within different institutions and subspecialists. The goals of a successful bowel management program in children with spina bifida consist of predictable bowel movements, social continence, and eventual independence. Treatment options range from conservative interventions such as diets and oral laxatives that modify stool consistency and transit, to trans-anal irrigations and antegrade continence enemas that facilitate predictable recto-sigmoid emptying and provide a greater degree of independence. In children, the treatment approach should be implemented in the context of the child's developmental age in order to allow for optimum social integration with their age-appropriate peers. We present a review of a stepwise approach to bowel management in children with spina bifida and the challenges related to the proposed treatment options.

Prospective evaluation of transanal irrigation for fecal incontinence and constipation

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of transanal irrigation on bowel function and quality of life in a prospective cohort of Danish patients with fecal incontinence or constipation.

METHODS

Patients with fecal incontinence or constipation of heterogeneous origin were treated by a specialist nurse at the Anal Physiology Clinic/Department of Surgery at Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark. If satisfactory results were not obtained after conservative bowel management, patients were instructed in the use the transanal irrigation procedure and were consecutively recruited for this observational cohort study in the period from March 2010 to September 2013. Patients completed questionnaires regarding bowel function, quality of life and the transanal irrigation procedure at baseline and after 12 months.

RESULTS

A total of 507 were introduced to transanal irrigation. Eighty-three percent were females. The median age was 56 (range 19-86) years. At follow-up, 216 (43%) patients still used transanal irrigation, 174 (34%) reported that they had discontinued the treatment for various reasons, while no response was obtained from the remaining 117 (23%) patients. The main reason for not adhering to the treatment was an unsatisfactory outcome, which was reported by 86 (49.4%) of those who discontinued the treatment. Among patients still using the procedure at follow-up, a statistically significant improvement of bowel function scores (St. Marks/Wexner incontinence score, Wexner constipation score and obstructed defecation syndrome score) was detected: the Wexner incontinence score decreased from 12.4 at baseline to 10.2 at follow-up (p < 0.001); the St. Marks incontinence score decreased from 14.9 to 12.7 (p < 0.001); the Wexner constipation score decreased from 14.3 to 12.4 (p < 0.001); and the obstructed defecation syndrome score also dropped, from 15.1 to 11.8 (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the influence of bowel dysfunction on daily activities and quality of life diminished significantly, while the general satisfaction with bowel function increased significantly (p < 0.001 in all three measures).

CONCLUSIONS

Bowel function and quality of life improved in the group of patients adhering to transanal irrigation after 12 months. However, more than one-third of the patients discontinued the treatment within the first year with transanal irrigation. Thus, further studies are needed in order to identify factors predicting success and failure with this treatment and to improve supervision during initiation and follow-up.

Predictive factors for compliance with transanal irrigation for the treatment of defecation disorders

AIM

To investigate compliance with transanal irrigation (TAI) one year after a training session and to identify predictive factors for compliance.

METHODS

The compliance of one hundred eight patients [87 women and 21 men; median age 55 years (range 18-83)] suffering from constipation or fecal incontinence (FI) was retrospectively assessed. The patients were trained in TAI over a four-year period at a single institution. They were classified as adopters if they continued using TAI for at least one year after beginning the treatment or as non-adopters if they stopped. Predictive factors of compliance with TAI were based on pretreatment assessments and training progress. The outcomes of the entire cohort of patients who had been recruited for the TAI treatment were expressed in terms of intention-to-treat.

RESULTS

Forty-six of the 108 (43%) trained patients continued to use TAI one year after their training session. The patients with FI had the best results, with 54.5% remaining compliant with TAI. Only one-third of the patients who complained of slow transit constipation or obstructed defecation syndrome continued TAI. There was an overall discontinuation rate of 57%. The most common reason for discontinuing TAI was the lack of efficacy (41%). However, 36% of the patients who discontinued TAI gave reasons independent of the efficacy of the treatment such as technical problems (catheter expulsion, rectal balloon bursting, instilled water leakage or retention, pain during irrigation, anal bleeding, anal fissure) while 23% said that there were too many constraints. Of the patients who reported discontinuing TAI, the only predictive factor was the progress of the training (OR = 4.9, 1.3-18.9, P = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

The progress of the training session was the only factor that predicted patient compliance with TAI.

Consensus Review of Best Practice of Transanal Irrigation in Children

Pediatric patients with either functional or organic bowel dysfunction may suffer from constipation and fecal incontinence and represent a complex group in whom management is often difficult. Many noninvasive and invasive treatments have been proposed, with variable efficacy and adverse effects. Transanal irrigation (TAI) is now an accepted alternative, in both children and adults, for bowel dysfunction that has not responded to conservative and medical therapies. There is, however, still some uncertainty about the use of TAI in pediatric populations. Hence, a group of specialists from different nations and pediatric disciplines, all with long-standing experience of bowel management in children, performed a literature search and had round table discussions to determine the best-practice use of TAI in the pediatric patient population. Based on these findings, this article provides best-practice recommendations on indications, patient selection, important considerations before treatment, patient and family training, treatment regimens, troubleshooting, and practical aspects of TAI. We conclude that careful patient selection, a tailored approach, directly supervised training, and sustained follow-up are key to optimize outcomes with TAI in children with functional or organic bowel dysfunction.

Systematic Review of Surgical Treatments for Fecal Incontinence

BACKGROUND

No systematic review has examined the collective randomized and nonrandomized evidence for fecal incontinence treatment effectiveness across the range of surgical treatments.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy, comparative effectiveness, and harms of surgical treatments for fecal incontinence in adults.

DATA SOURCES

Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, Physiotherapy Evidence Database, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Allied and Complementary Medicine, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, as well as hand searches of systematic reviews, were used as data sources.

STUDY SELECTION

Two investigators screened abstracts for eligibility (surgical treatment of fecal incontinence in adults, published 1980-2015, randomized controlled trial or observational study with comparator; case series were included for adverse effects). Full-text articles were reviewed for patient-reported outcomes. We extracted data, assessed study risk of bias, and evaluated strength of evidence for each treatment-outcome combination.

INTERVENTIONS

Surgical treatments for fecal incontinence were included interventions.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Fecal incontinence episodes/severity, quality of life, urgency, and pain were measured.

RESULTS

Twenty-two studies met inclusion criteria (13 randomized trials and 9 observational trials); 53 case series were included for harms. Most patients were middle-aged women with mixed FI etiologies. Intervention and outcome heterogeneity precluded meta-analysis. Evidence was insufficient for all of the surgical comparisons. Few studies examined the same comparisons; no studies were high quality. Functional improvements varied; some authors excluded those patients with complications or lost to follow-up from analyses. Complications ranged from minor to major (infection, bowel obstruction, perforation, and fistula) and were most frequent after the artificial bowel sphincter (22%-100%). Major surgical complications often required reoperation; few required permanent colostomy.

LIMITATIONS

Most evidence is intermediate term, with small patient samples and substantial methodologic limitations.

CONCLUSIONS

Evidence was insufficient to support clinical or policy decisions for any surgical treatments for fecal incontinence in adults. More invasive surgical procedures had substantial complications. The lack of compliance with study reporting standards is a modifiable impediment in the field. Future studies should focus on longer-term outcomes and attempt to identify subgroups of adults who might benefit from specific procedures.

Functional Anorectal Disorders

This report defines criteria and reviews the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and management of common anorectal disorders: fecal incontinence (FI), functional anorectal pain and functional defecation disorders. FI is defined as the recurrent uncontrolled passage of fecal material for at least 3 months. The clinical features of FI are useful for guiding diagnostic testing and therapy. Anorectal manometry and imaging are useful for evaluating anal and pelvic floor structure and function. Education, antidiarrheals and biofeedback therapy are the mainstay of management; surgery may be useful in refractory cases. Functional anorectal pain syndromes are defined by clinical features and categorized into three subtypes. In proctalgia fugax, the pain is typically fleeting and lasts for seconds to minutes. In levator ani syndrome (LAS) and unspecified anorectal pain the pain lasts more than 30 minutes, but in LAS there is puborectalis tenderness. Functional defecation disorders are defined by >2 symptoms of chronic constipation or irritable bowel syndrome with constipation, and with >2 features of impaired evacuation i.e., abnormal evacuation pattern on manometry, abnormal balloon expulsion test or impaired rectal evacuation by imaging. It includes two subtypes; dyssynergic defecation and inadequate defecatory propulsion. Pelvic floor biofeedback therapy is effective for treating LAS and defecatory disorders.

Functional Anorectal Disorders

This report defines criteria and reviews the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and management of common anorectal disorders: fecal incontinence (FI), functional anorectal pain and functional defecation disorders. FI is defined as the recurrent uncontrolled passage of fecal material for at least 3 months. The clinical features of FI are useful for guiding diagnostic testing and therapy. Anorectal manometry and imaging are useful for evaluating anal and pelvic floor structure and function. Education, antidiarrheals and biofeedback therapy are the mainstay of management; surgery may be useful in refractory cases. Functional anorectal pain syndromes are defined by clinical features and categorized into three subtypes. In proctalgia fugax, the pain is typically fleeting and lasts for seconds to minutes. In levator ani syndrome (LAS) and unspecified anorectal pain the pain lasts more than 30 minutes, but in LAS there is puborectalis tenderness. Functional defecation disorders are defined by >2 symptoms of chronic constipation or irritable bowel syndrome with constipation, and with >2 features of impaired evacuation i.e., abnormal evacuation pattern on manometry, abnormal balloon expulsion test or impaired rectal evacuation by imaging. It includes two subtypes; dyssynergic defecation and inadequate defecatory propulsion. Pelvic floor biofeedback therapy is effective for treating LAS and defecatory disorders.

Trans-anal irrigation therapy to treat adult chronic functional constipation: systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Trans-anal irrigation (TAI) is used widely to treat bowel dysfunction, although evidence for its use in adult chronic functional constipation remains unclear. Long-term outcome data are lacking, and the effectiveness of therapy in this patient group is not definitively known.

Methods

Evidence for effectiveness and safety was reviewed and the quality of studies was assessed. Primary research articles of patients with chronic functional constipation, treated with TAI as outpatients and published in English in indexed journals were eligible. Searching included major bibliographical databases and search terms: bowel dysfunction, defecation, constipation and irrigation. Fixed- and random-effect meta-analyses were performed.

Results

Seven eligible uncontrolled studies, including 254 patients, of retrospective or prospective design were identified. The definition of treatment response varied and was investigator-determined. The fixed-effect pooled response rate (the proportion of patients with a positive outcome based on investigator-reported response for each study) was 50.4 % (95 % CI: 44.3–56.5 %) but featured substantial heterogeneity (I² = 67.1 %). A random-effects estimate was similar: 50.9 % (95 % CI: 39.4–62.3 %). Adverse events were inconsistently reported but were commonplace and minor.

Conclusions

The reported success rate of irrigation for functional constipation is about 50 %, comparable to or better than the response seen in trials of pharmacological therapies. TAI is a safe treatment benefitting some patients with functional constipation, which is a chronic refractory condition. However findings for TAI vary, possibly due to varying methodology and context. Well-designed prospective trials are required to improve the current weak evidence base.

Examining professionals' and parents' views of using transanal irrigation with children: Understanding their experiences to develop a shared health resource for education and practise

Irrigation as a bowel management approach has been reportedly used with children for more than 20 years. Parents managing their child's chronic bowel problem have previously been shown to have increased emotional stress. The aim of this study was to explore professionals' (n = 24) understanding and parents' (n = 18) experiences of using transanal irrigation with children at home as a mid to longer term bowel management approach. This study was underpinned by action research methodology and used mixed methods determined by an action research group of parents, professionals, researchers, a voluntary sector worker, commercial representative and independent observer. Data informed the study outcome which was the development and evaluation of a shared health resource to support professionals in their holistic approach when prescribing transanal irrigation and guide parents in the areas of education, management, problem solving, support and goal setting. The resource includes constructed case studies from parents of their experiences to inform choice and decision-making between parents and professionals. The shared health resource provides an approach to initiating and evaluating transanal irrigation and is available in a paper format from key Internet sites across hospital, community and voluntary services.

Consensus statement AIGO/SICCR diagnosis and treatment of chronic constipation and obstructed defecation (part II: treatment)

The second part of the Consensus Statement of the Italian Association of Hospital Gastroenterologists and Italian Society of Colo-Rectal Surgery reports on the treatment of chronic constipation and obstructed defecation. There is no evidence that increasing fluid intake and physical activity can relieve the symptoms of chronic constipation. Patients with normal-transit constipation should increase their fibre intake through their diet or with commercial fibre. Osmotic laxatives may be effective in patients who do not respond to fibre supplements. Stimulant laxatives should be reserved for patients who do not respond to osmotic laxatives. Controlled trials have shown that serotoninergic enterokinetic agents, such as prucalopride, and prosecretory agents, such as lubiprostone, are effective in the treatment of patients with chronic constipation. Surgery is sometimes necessary. Total colectomy with ileorectostomy may be considered in patients with slow-transit constipation and inertia coli who are resistant to medical therapy and who do not have defecatory disorders, generalised motility disorders or psychological disorders. Randomised controlled trials have established the efficacy of rehabilitative treatment in dys-synergic defecation. Many surgical procedures may be used to treat obstructed defecation in patients with acquired anatomical defects, but none is considered to be the gold standard. Surgery should be reserved for selected patients with an impaired quality of life. Obstructed defecation is often associated with pelvic organ prolapse. Surgery with the placement of prostheses is replacing fascial surgery in the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse, but the efficacy and safety of such procedures have not yet been established.

Consensus statement AIGO/SICCR diagnosis and treatment of chronic constipation and obstructed defecation (Part II: Treatment)

The second part of the Consensus Statement of the Italian Association of Hospital Gastroenterologists and Italian Society of Colo-Rectal Surgery reports on the treatment of chronic constipation and obstructed defecation. There is no evidence that increasing fluid intake and physical activity can relieve the symptoms of chronic constipation. Patients with normal-transit constipation should increase their fibre intake through their diet or with commercial fibre. Osmotic laxatives may be effective in patients who do not respond to fibre supplements. Stimulant laxatives should be reserved for patients who do not respond to osmotic laxatives. Controlled trials have shown that serotoninergic enterokinetic agents, such as prucalopride, and prosecretory agents, such as lubiprostone, are effective in the treatment of patients with chronic constipation. Surgery is sometimes necessary. Total colectomy with ileorectostomy may be considered in patients with slow-transit constipation and inertia coli who are resistant to medical therapy and who do not have defecatory disorders, generalised motility disorders or psychological disorders. Randomised controlled trials have established the efficacy of rehabilitative treatment in dys-synergic defecation. Many surgical procedures may be used to treat obstructed defecation in patients with acquired anatomical defects, but none is considered to be the gold standard. Surgery should be reserved for selected patients with an impaired quality of life. Obstructed defecation is often associated with pelvic organ prolapse. Surgery with the placement of prostheses is replacing fascial surgery in the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse, but the efficacy and safety of such procedures have not yet been established.

Consensus statement AIGO/SICCR diagnosis and treatment of chronic constipation and obstructed defecation (part II: treatment)

The second part of the Consensus Statement of the Italian Association of Hospital Gastroenterologists and Italian Society of Colo-Rectal Surgery reports on the treatment of chronic constipation and obstructed defecation. There is no evidence that increasing fluid intake and physical activity can relieve the symptoms of chronic constipation. Patients with normal-transit constipation should increase their fibre intake through their diet or with commercial fibre. Osmotic laxatives may be effective in patients who do not respond to fibre supplements. Stimulant laxatives should be reserved for patients who do not respond to osmotic laxatives. Controlled trials have shown that serotoninergic enterokinetic agents, such as prucalopride, and prosecretory agents, such as lubiprostone, are effective in the treatment of patients with chronic constipation. Surgery is sometimes necessary. Total colectomy with ileorectostomy may be considered in patients with slow-transit constipation and inertia coli who are resistant to medical therapy and who do not have defecatory disorders, generalised motility disorders or psychological disorders. Randomised controlled trials have established the efficacy of rehabilitative treatment in dys-synergic defecation. Many surgical procedures may be used to treat obstructed defecation in patients with acquired anatomical defects, but none is considered to be the gold standard. Surgery should be reserved for selected patients with an impaired quality of life. Obstructed defecation is often associated with pelvic organ prolapse. Surgery with the placement of prostheses is replacing fascial surgery in the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse, but the efficacy and safety of such procedures have not yet been established.

Review of the efficacy and safety of transanal irrigation for neurogenic bowel dysfunction

STUDY DESIGN

Neurogenic bowel dysfunction (NBD) is a common occurrence after spinal cord injury (SCI) and in patients with spina bifida or multiple sclerosis. The impact of NBD on well-being is considerable, affecting both physical and psychological aspects of quality of life. Transanal irrigation (TAI) of the colon promotes the evacuation of faeces by introducing water into the colon and rectum through a catheter inserted into the anus. Regular and controlled evacuation in this manner aims at preventing both constipation and faecal soiling.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to review current evidence for the efficacy and safety of TAI in patients with NBD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A literature search was conducted in PubMed. All identified papers were assessed for relevance based on the title and abstract; this yielded 23 studies that were considered to be of direct relevance to the topic of the review.

RESULTS

A multicentre, randomized, controlled trial has supported observational reports in demonstrating that TAI offers significant benefits over conservative bowel management in patients with SCI, in terms of managing constipation and faecal incontinence, reducing NBD symptoms and improving quality of life. Among other populations with NBD, TAI shows the greatest promise in children with spina bifida; however, further investigation is required. The overall safety profile of TAI is good, with few, and rare, adverse effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Building on the positive data reported for patients with SCI, continued evaluation in the clinical trial setting is required to further define the utility of TAI in other populations with NBD.

Prospective study of colonic irrigation for the treatment of defaecation disorders

BACKGROUND

Retrograde colonic irrigation is a possible treatment for defaecation disorders when conservative treatment or surgery has failed. The aim of this prospective study was to investigate its effectiveness.

METHODS

Patients were divided into three groups: those with faecal incontinence (A), constipation (B) or both (C). The Biotrol Irrimatic pump or the irrigation bag was used for colonic irrigation. Patients completed a questionnaire at baseline and after 3, 6 and 12 months, as well as a Short Form 36 health survey and an American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgery quality of life questionnaire at baseline and after 6 months.

RESULTS

The study included 39 patients (26 women; mean age 58.0 years). In group A, 11 of 18 patients were pseudocontinent for faeces at 3 months (P < 0.001). Parks' incontinence scores decreased for all patients in this group at 3 months (P < 0.001), 6 months (P = 0.036) and 1 year (P = 0.005). In group B, three of ten patients reported a major improvement. The mean score for the feeling of incomplete evacuation decreased at 3 months (P = 0.007), 6 months (P = 0.013) and 1 year (P = 0.036). In group C, six of ten patients became pseudocontinent for faeces (P = 0.009) and three reported improvement in constipation. The overall quality of life scores improved (P = 0.012).

CONCLUSION

Retrograde colonic irrigation is an undervalued but effective alternative treatment for intractable defaecation disorders.