[Conservative treatment of neurogenic fecal incontinence. Our experience with children]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Colorectal Surgery
• Neuro-Urology

Context:

• Fecal incontinence is a common and distressing symptom in children with myelodysplasia.
• Traditional management often involves diapers, impacting quality of life and social participation.
• Neurogenic bowel dysfunction in myelodysplasia necessitates effective management strategies.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the efficacy of retrograde colon enema (RCE) in managing fecal incontinence in pediatric patients with myelodysplasia.
• To assess the long-term outcomes of RCE regarding rectal continence and diaper independence.
• To determine the impact of RCE on the social adaptation of affected children.

Summary:

• A study involving 33 children (average age 11.9 years) with myelodysplasia and fecal incontinence utilized retrograde colon enema.
• The procedure resulted in successful rectal emptying for 97% of patients (32 children), who became diaper-free after over two years of follow-up.
• One patient required pads due to difficulties with defecation timing post-enema.

Impact:

• Retrograde colon enema offers a highly effective conservative treatment for neurogenic fecal incontinence in children.
• Achieving fecal continence through RCE significantly enhances children's social adaptation and integration.
• This minimally invasive approach improves quality of life for pediatric patients with myelodysplasia-related bowel dysfunction.