Randomised trial of biofeedback training for encopresis

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Child Psychology

Background:

• Encopresis, or fecal incontinence, affects a significant number of children, often leading to psychosocial distress.
• The role of biofeedback training in managing encopresis and its impact on behavioral outcomes requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of biofeedback training as an adjunct to standard multimodal treatment for encopresis in children.
• To assess the effect of biofeedback training on the psychosocial function of children with encopresis.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, controlled randomized study involving a six-week multimodal treatment program.
• Children received dietary advice, toilet training, enemas, oral laxatives, and anorectal manometry, with one group additionally receiving biofeedback sessions.

Main Results:

• Biofeedback training showed a higher initial success rate (39% vs. 19%) but no significant long-term difference compared to standard treatment alone.
• Approximately 50% of children in both groups achieved successful treatment at 12 and 18 months.
• Children with initial behavioral problems who were successfully treated showed significant improvement in their behavioral profiles.

Conclusions:

• Biofeedback training did not demonstrate an additional benefit for encopresis treatment success rates or behavioral scores.
• Psychosocial problems are prevalent in a subgroup of children with encopresis.
• Successful encopresis treatment correlates with improved behavioral function, suggesting encopresis may contribute to behavioral issues.