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Published on: February 5, 2019
[Diagnosis and treatment of pediatric anismus]
Shu-qing Ding1, Yi-jiang Ding, Yong-tian Chen
1The Third Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Central of Colorectal Surgery, Nanjing 210001, China. njgczx@public1.ptt.js.cn
Insights
Pediatric anismus, a cause of chronic constipation, is diagnosed using colon barium contrast and anorectal manometry. The Lynn procedure offers a surgical option for patients unresponsive to conservative treatments like toilet training.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Colorectal Surgery
Context:
- Idiopathic chronic constipation in children can be linked to anismus.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management.
Purpose:
- To investigate diagnostic methods and treatment outcomes for pediatric anismus.
- To evaluate the efficacy of the Lynn procedure in refractory cases.
Summary:
- Retrospective analysis of 29 pediatric patients diagnosed with anismus via colon barium contrast and anorectal manometry.
- Initial treatment involved toilet training, diet modification, and laxatives, with limited success. Four patients underwent the Lynn procedure, showing positive outcomes.
- Diagnostic tools include history, colon barium contrast, and anorectal manometry, with rectoanal inhibitory reflex (RAIR) assessment. The Lynn procedure is a viable option for treatment-resistant cases.
Impact:
- Highlights the importance of specific diagnostic criteria for pediatric anismus.
- Suggests the Lynn procedure as a potential surgical intervention for severe or persistent cases.
- Provides insights into the long-term effects of the Lynn procedure on anorectal manometry parameters.
Objective:
To explore the diagnosis and treatment methods of pediatric anismus.
Methods:
Twenty-nine patients with idiopathic chronic constipation, diagnosed with anismus by colon barium contrast and anorectal manometry from Nov. 2001 to Nov. 2004 in our hospital, were investigated retrospectively.
Results:
This group consisted of 13 men and 16 women whose mean age was (6.7+/-4.0) years. Hirschsprung diseases were excluded from the patients by colon barium contrast and rectoanal inhibitory reflex (RAIR) examination. Normal RAIR (5-10 ml elicited) was showed on 21 cases while weakened RAIR (15-30 ml elicited) was showed on 8 cases. After the diagnosis, the patients were treated by toilet training, diet regulation and laxative for 1-2 months. 4 cases were recovered, 5 cases were improved and 20 cases were relied on glycerin suppository. Four cases, relied on glycerin suppository, underwent Lynn procedure and had good results after 5-24 months follow-up. Two cases were re-examined by anorectal manometry 3 and 6 months after surgery, the resting pressure and the high pressure zone (HPZ) decreased, but the simulation defecation reflex was still abnormal.
Conclusions:
The diagnosis of pediatric anismus relies on history of constipation, combined with anorectal manometry and colon barium contrast. Lynn procedure could be chosen for the patients unsatisfied in toilet training and other non-operative treatment.
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