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Hypnosis to Reduce Distress in Children Undergoing Anorectal Manometry: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial
Desiree F Baaleman1,2,3, Mana H Vriesman1,2, Ilan J N Koppen1,2
1Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.
Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility
|April 1, 2022
Summary
Hypnosis significantly reduced distress in children before anorectal manometry (ARM). This brief intervention is feasible and well-received by children and parents, although distress during the procedure did not differ.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Psychological Interventions
- Medical Procedure Support
Background:
- Functional constipation is a common pediatric issue.
- Anorectal manometry (ARM) is a diagnostic procedure that can cause distress in children.
- Minimizing procedural distress is crucial for pediatric patient experience.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of using hypnosis to reduce distress in children undergoing ARM.
- To assess the impact of a brief hypnosis session on children's anxiety before and during ARM.
Main Methods:
- A partially-blinded randomized controlled pilot trial involving 32 children (ages 4-18) undergoing ARM.
- Children were randomized to receive either a brief hypnosis session or standard care prior to the procedure.
- Distress levels were assessed using the Observation Scale of Behavioral Distress and a 4-point Likert scale by blinded and non-blinded observers.
Main Results:
- Children in the hypnosis group showed significantly lower distress levels before ARM compared to the standard care group (P=0.009 and P=0.044).
- No significant differences in distress were observed during the ARM procedure itself.
- Hypnosis was positively perceived, with 92.9% of parents and children reporting it helped with relaxation. No procedural differences were noted.
Conclusions:
- A brief hypnosis session is an easily integrated intervention to lower pre-procedural distress in children undergoing ARM.
- Hypnosis is a feasible and positively received method for managing pediatric procedural anxiety.
- Further research may explore sustained effects and broader applications in pediatric procedures.
