Peristeen (ⓒ) transanal irrigation system for paediatric faecal incontinence: a single centre experience

Aim. To evaluate the efficacy of the Peristeen (Ⓒ) transanal irrigation system when treating faecal incontinence in children due to chronic idiopathic constipation. Methods. A retrospective study was conducted of the first cohort of patients affected with faecal incontinence and referred to our centre for Peristeen (Ⓒ) transanal irrigation treatment between January 2010 and December 2012. Patients with neurogenic bowel disturbance were excluded. A previously described and validated faecal continence scoring system was used to assess bowel function and social problems before and after treatment with Peristeen (Ⓒ) . Results. 13 patients were referred for Peristeen (Ⓒ) transanal irrigation during the study period. Mean time of using Peristeen (Ⓒ)   was 12.6 months (±0.6 months) and mean length of follow-up was 21.2 months (±0.9 months). All patients were noted to have an improvement in their faecal continence score, with a mean improvement from 9.7 ± 1.4 to 14.8 ± 2.7 (P = 0.0008) and a reduction in episodes of soiling and increasing in quality of life scores. Conclusion. In this initial study, Peristeen (Ⓒ) appears to be a safe and effective bowel management system, which improves bowel function and quality of life in children affected with faecal incontinence as a result of chronic idiopathic constipation, Hirschsprung's disease, and anorectal malformations.