Transanal irrigation in pediatric bowel dysfunction: a prospective study on clinical outcomes and quality of life

Marco Di Mitri1,2, Annalisa Di Carmine3,4, Simone D'Antonio5

  • 1Pediatric Surgery Department, IRCCS Meyer, Florence, Italy. marcodimitri14@gmail.com.

PubMed

Insights

Transanal irrigation (TAI) significantly improves bowel function and quality of life in children with severe bowel dysfunction. This therapy reduces incontinence episodes and caregiver burden, offering a less invasive treatment option.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Bowel Management Therapies

Background:

  • Severe bowel dysfunction in children often leads to fecal incontinence and refractory constipation.
  • Transanal irrigation (TAI) is an emerging minimally invasive therapy for pediatric bowel dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the impact of TAI on bowel habits in pediatric patients.
  • To assess changes in medication use, quality of life, and caregiver burden following TAI.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective observational study involving 20 pediatric patients with fecal incontinence.
  • Structured questionnaires were used to assess bowel function and quality of life at baseline and after 60 days of TAI.
  • Statistical analysis included Fisher's exact and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests to compare outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Significant improvements were observed in bowel care time, frequency of soiling, and fecal incontinence episodes (p < 0.01).
  • Reduced dependence on laxatives or enemas was noted (p < 0.01).
  • Improvements in social participation, emotional well-being, patient autonomy, and reduced discomfort were reported.

Conclusions:

  • Transanal irrigation (TAI) is an effective strategy for improving continence in children.
  • TAI effectively reduces the burden of bowel care and enhances the quality of life for pediatric patients with refractory bowel dysfunction.
Abstract

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