Bowel management program for pediatric postoperative fecal incontinence in China: A surgeon's experience

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Gastroenterology
• Quality of Life Research

Background:

• Fecal incontinence (FI) postoperation significantly impacts children's quality of life.
• Effective management strategies are crucial for pediatric surgical outcomes.
• The Bowel Management Program (BMP) is a potential intervention for FI.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and long-term adherence of the BMP for postoperation FI in Chinese children.
• To analyze the impact of BMP on incontinence, quality of life, and family functioning.
• To identify challenges associated with BMP application in this population.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 48 children (over 3 years) with postoperation FI.
• Evaluations conducted before and 2 years post-clinic visit.
• Analysis of treatment costs, incontinence improvement, quality of life, and family functioning.

Main Results:

• The BMP demonstrated significant improvements in incontinence status and health-related quality of life.
• The median treatment cost was $660.1, with minor complications reported.
• Despite positive outcomes, adherence was low, with 50% discontinuing the program.

Conclusions:

• The BMP is an effective treatment for pediatric fecal incontinence, enhancing patient quality of life.
• Poor long-term adherence is the primary barrier to the successful implementation of the BMP in China.
• Further strategies are needed to improve patient compliance and program sustainability.