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New biofeedback therapy in children with encopresis
1Division of Surgery, Children's Research Hospital, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Japan.
Summary
Computerized biofeedback therapy effectively treated encopresis in 12 of 13 children. This approach improved anal sphincter control and rectal sensation, offering a new treatment option for pediatric encopresis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Biofeedback Therapy
- Childhood Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders
Background:
- Encopresis is a common condition in children, often resistant to conventional treatments.
- Previous therapies for encopresis have shown limited success in some pediatric populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a novel computerized biofeedback therapy for encopresis in children.
- To assess the impact of biofeedback on anal sphincter function and rectal sensation.
Main Methods:
- 13 children (aged 6-11 years) with encopresis, unresponsive to conventional therapy, underwent computerized biofeedback.
- Anorectal manometry and electromyography (EMG) were used to assess sphincter function and rectal sensation before and after therapy.
Main Results:
- Biofeedback therapy was effective in 12 out of 13 patients after a single course.
- Patients demonstrated improved voluntary anal sphincter squeeze pressure and rectal sensation post-therapy.
- Computerized equipment facilitated patient understanding of sphincter control through visual feedback.
Conclusions:
- Computerized biofeedback therapy is a highly effective treatment for pediatric encopresis.
- This therapy enhances voluntary sphincter function and rectal sensation, suggesting its utility in patients with intact sphincter function.
- Novel biofeedback equipment offers a promising approach for managing encopresis.