Role of daily anal stimulation for intractable functional constipation in infants

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Infant Health
• Digestive Disorders

Background:

• Functional constipation is a prevalent pediatric gastrointestinal issue.
• Intractable functional constipation (IFC) in infants presents significant clinical challenges.
• Evaluating novel therapeutic approaches for infant constipation is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of daily anal stimulation in infants diagnosed with intractable functional constipation (IFC).
• To evaluate clinical improvements and changes in anorectal manometry parameters following anal stimulation treatment.
• To determine the long-term effectiveness and recurrence rates of this intervention.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study included 161 infants with IFC treated between January 2018 and December 2019.
• The intervention involved daily anal stimulation for infants and psychological counseling for parents.
• Patients were evaluated for symptom improvement and anorectal manometry changes within a 1-year follow-up period.

Main Results:

• All patients achieved a positive clinical response, with significant improvements in defecation frequency, stool form, and reduced defecatory pain.
• Anorectal manometry showed a significant increase in mean peristaltic amplitude and improved rhythm post-intervention.
• Only three patients (less than 2%) experienced recurrence requiring colectomy within the 1-year follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Daily anal stimulation demonstrates high clinical efficacy and minimal side effects in treating infant intractable functional constipation.
• The procedure leads to significant improvements in key clinical and manometric parameters.
• Anal stimulation is a recommended component of the initial intervention program for IFC in infants.