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Gastric emptying of water in children with severe functional fecal retention

V P I Fernandes1, M C L Lima, E E Camargo

  • 1Gastroenterologia Pediátrica, Departamento de Pediatria, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brasil. vpinaba@terra.com.br

Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research = Revista Brasileira De Pesquisas Medicas E Biologicas
|March 28, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Delayed gastric emptying (GE) is common in children with functional constipation and fecal retention. Improving bowel function did not normalize GE, suggesting persistent GE issues in pediatric constipation.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Digestive Physiology

Background:

  • Delayed gastric emptying (GE) is observed in adults with functional constipation.
  • Functional constipation in children often involves fecal retention and incontinence.
  • Dyspeptic symptoms are frequently reported in pediatric patients with constipation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate gastric emptying (GE) in pediatric patients diagnosed with functional constipation.
  • To assess if improving bowel function normalizes delayed GE in children.

Main Methods:

  • Gastric emptying studies using a radionuclide technique were performed on 22 children.
  • Measurements were taken during fecal impaction (GE1) and after achieving regular bowel movements (GE2).
  • Gastric half-emptying time of water was assessed.

Main Results:

  • Delayed GE (median 27.0 min) was observed in children with fecal impaction.
  • GE measurements did not significantly differ after resuming regular bowel movements (median 27.5 min).
  • Dyspeptic symptoms resolved with improved bowel function, but GE remained delayed.

Conclusions:

  • Delayed gastric emptying appears to be a common characteristic in children with chronic constipation and fecal retention.
  • Normalization of bowel function and resolution of dyspeptic symptoms do not necessarily correct delayed GE in this pediatric population.

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