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Fecoflowmetric evaluation of anorectal function and ability to defecate in children with idiopathic chronic

Hiroyuki Kayaba1, Tatsuzo Hebiguchi, Hiroaki Yoshino

  • 1Central Clinical Laboratory, Akita University School of Medicine, Akita, Japan. kayaba@hos.akita-u.ac.jp

Pediatric Surgery International
|April 25, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Idiopathic chronic constipation (ICC) in children is linked to anorectal motility (ARM) disturbances. Fecoflowmetry revealed that abnormal ARM impacts defecation dynamics and treatment response in pediatric patients.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Physiology

Background:

  • Idiopathic chronic constipation (ICC) is a prevalent condition in children with complex pathophysiology.
  • Understanding anorectal motility (ARM) is crucial for managing pediatric constipation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the relationship between anorectal motility (ARM) and the clinical course in children diagnosed with ICC.
  • To evaluate the diagnostic utility of fecoflowmetry in assessing defecation dynamics in pediatric constipation.

Main Methods:

  • Fecoflowmetry was employed to assess anorectal function in nine children (ages 2-14) with ICC.
  • Simultaneous recording of rectal and anal canal pressure fluctuations during saline infusion.
  • Evaluation of saline evacuation curves to assess defecation dynamics.

Main Results:

  • Seven patients exhibited periodic rectal contractions, correlating with successful spontaneous defecation.
  • Two patients without rectal contractions showed poor response to medical management.
  • Eight patients demonstrated significantly lower flow rates and longer evacuation times compared to controls.

Conclusions:

  • Disturbances in anorectal motility (ARM) are significant factors in severe pediatric idiopathic chronic constipation.
  • Fecoflowmetry is a valuable, non-invasive tool for evaluating defecation ability in children.
  • Clinical assessment of children with chronic constipation should incorporate detailed evaluation of ARM and defecation dynamics.

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