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Published on: July 5, 2024
Scientific solution to a complex problem: physiology and multidisciplinary team improve understanding and outcome in
Eleni Athanasakos1, Sally Dalton2, Susan McDowell2
1Department of Paediatric Surgery, The Royal London Hospital, Paediatrics Level 7, Ward 7D, Whitechapel Rd, London, E1 1BB, UK. Eleni.Athanasakos@bartshealth.nhs.uk.
Insights
A new Children's Anorectal Physiology Service (CAPS) improved patient satisfaction for children with chronic constipation and fecal incontinence. This multidisciplinary approach offers a scientific solution for complex pediatric bowel conditions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Colorectal Surgery
- Pediatric Surgery
Background:
- Chronic constipation (CC) and fecal incontinence (FI) in children lack diagnostic clarity, hindering effective management.
- A multidisciplinary approach is crucial for addressing complex pediatric bowel conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of an innovative Children's Anorectal Physiology Service (CAPS) on outcomes for children with CC/FI.
- To assess if a specialized service improves diagnostic credibility and patient management.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 112 children with CC/FI.
- Utilized awake high-resolution anorectal manometry (AHRAM), endoanal ultrasound, and transit marker studies (TMS).
- Assessed quality of life (QoL) and risk of distress using validated questionnaires.
Main Results:
- 81% had abnormal St Marks Incontinence scores (SMIS), and 90% had abnormal Cleveland Constipation Scores (CCS).
- AHRAM revealed sphincter dysfunction in 32% and altered rectal sensation in 20-22%.
- Patient and parent satisfaction significantly improved post-intervention (p < 0.05).
Conclusions:
- Scientific investigations integrated with a multidisciplinary team enhance patient satisfaction.
- This specialized service effectively reduces self-reported illness severity in pediatric patients.
- A scientific, multidisciplinary solution is essential for managing complex pediatric anorectal disorders.
Purpose:
There is a lack of diagnostic credibility to direct focused management for children with chronic constipation (CC) and faecal incontinence (FI). The aim is to assess the impact of an innovative Children's Anorectal Physiology Service (CAPS) focusing on improving outcomes in children with CC/FI.
Methods:
Prospective data: demographics, bowel and quality of life (QoL)/risk of distress questionnaires. Diagnostics: awake high-resolution anorectal manometry (AHRAM), endoanal ultrasound and transit marker studies (TMS).
Results:
Total patients: 112; 66 males (59%); median 9 years (17 months to 16 years). Patient groups included: 89 (79%) had functional CC/FI; 9 (8%), Hirschsprung's disease; 12 (11%), anorectal malformations and 2 (2%), trauma. St Marks Incontinence score (SMIS) abnormal in 91 (81%) and Cleveland Constipation Score (CCS) in 101 (90%) patients. Anorectal manometry: 94 (84%) awake and 18 (17%) under anaesthesia. Play specialist input 37 (33%) patients. AHRAM abnormal 65 (58%): sphincter dysfunction 36 (32%) and altered rectal sensation: hyposensitive 22% (20/91); 21% (19/91) hypersensitive. TMS normal in 64 (57%), 17 (15%) slow transit and 27 (24%) rectal evacuatory disorder. Risk of distress in 38% and poor QoL in 55% patients which correlated with abnormal SMIS (p = 0.02). Patient/parent satisfaction improved significantly (p < 0.05).
Conclusions:
Scientific investigations combined with multidisciplinary team improve patient satisfaction and reduces patient self-report illness severity. A complex problem requires a scientific solution.
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