After the honeymoon--medium-term outcome of antegrade continence enema procedure

Psychosocial factors impacting antegrade continence enema outcomes in pediatric patients

BACKGROUND

Children with constipation and encopresis are often treated with medication and behavioral approaches. When constipation persists, surgical interventions such as antegrade continence enema (ACE) procedures are considered. Many children benefit from these procedures; however, some children continue to have incontinence, experience complications, or discontinue the use of the ACE stoma. There is some evidence in the literature to indicate that psychosocial factors can have an impact on ACE outcomes; however, standardized biopsychosocial guidelines related to ACE candidacy and surgery do not currently exist.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this review is to summarize the research to date on psychosocial factors related to ACE treatment outcomes and complications. Identifying what is known and what limitations remain can support future research to inform development of guidelines for pre-procedure evaluations. Psychosocial pre-procedure evaluations could help to inform eligibility for the procedure as well as interventions to enhance outcomes for children at increased risk for poor outcomes or complications from ACE. Age, psychiatric symptoms, and adherence to the ACE flush regimen were some of the factors identified in the literature as impacting ACE outcomes; however, there is limited research in this area.

Enema-Induced spastic left colon syndrome: An unintended consequence of chronic enema use

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Enemas have become a common practice for treating fecal incontinence and severe constipation. Several patients receiving enemas complained of severe, colicky, abdominal pain during enema administration and complained that the duration for fluid to pass was progressively increasing. Contrast studies showed a startling picture of severe right colon dilatation and a spastic, narrow, left colon. An investigation was started to seek the origin and possible management of this condition.

METHODS

Medical and radiologic records were reviewed retrospectively, with emphasis on the type and ingredients of enemas used, the duration the patients had been receiving enemas, and their original diagnosis. A literature review was done on previous reports of this condition and publications related to long-term use of enemas.

RESULTS

This series included 22 patients (average age, 19.6 years; range, 8-54) with fecal incontinence due to anorectal malformations (10 cases), myelomeningocele (5), cloaca (2), severe colonic dysmotility (2), Hirschsprung's disease (2), and sacrococcygeal teratoma (1). The average duration of enema use was 13.7 years (range, 4-45). The composition of the enemas included saline/glycerin (six cases), only saline solution (five), saline/glycerin/soap (four), plain water (three), and one case each of molasses/milk, saline/glycerin/soap/phosphate, saline/phosphate, and only phosphate. The enemas were performed in an antegrade fashion in 21 cases and rectally in 1. All patients had a dilated right colon and a narrow, spastic, left, transverse, and descending colon. Four patients underwent colonoscopy, colonic manometry, and mucosal biopsies, which did not help in explaining the etiology of the problem. In the literature, 43 reports mentioned a "long-term follow-up" for the administration of enemas, but we could not find a description of symptoms, such as in our cases.

CONCLUSIONS

An intriguing and, to our knowledge, previously unreported complication of chronic enema use is presented. We call attention to an overly concerning complication and report our findings in the hope that they will aid and stimulate more investigations into this condition. Several hypotheses to explain the cause are presented, as well as potential treatment options.

Tube cecostomy versus appendicostomy for antegrade enemas in the management of fecal incontinence in children: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Few studies have directly compared between cecostomy and appendicostomy for the management of fecal incontinence in pediatric population. This systematic review of the literature describes outcomes and complications following both procedures. We also reviewed studies reporting impact on quality of life and patient satisfaction.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and Google Scholar were searched for chronic constipation pediatric patients who underwent cecostomy or appendicostomy. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed quality.

RESULTS

An initial literature search retrieved 633 citations. After review of all abstracts, 40 studies were included in the final analysis, assessing a total of 2086 patients. The overall rate of complications was lower in the cecostomy group compared to the appendicostomy group (16.6% and 42.3%, respectively). Achievement of fecal continence and improvement in patient quality of life were found to be similar in both groups, however the need for revision of surgery was approximately 15% higher in the appendicostomy group.

CONCLUSION

Cecostomy has less post procedural complications, however rates of patient satisfaction and impact on quality of life were similar following both procedures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Prevention and management of complications in various antegrade enema procedures in children: a review of the literature

The antegrade continence enema (ACE) procedures are successful surgical options to achieve bowel cleaning in children with faecal incontinence due to a neuropathy or an anorectal malformation and an intractable constipation. The reversed and orthotopic appendicocecostomy, tubularized ileal conduit and the tubularized cecal flap are frequently applied procedures in the treatment of faecal incontinence (FI). The most common complications are the stoma stenosis, leakage, prolapse, adhesive obstruction and the difficulty in catheterization. Each procedure has its own advantages and disadvantages with different complication rates. The postoperative complications of ACE procedures may reduce patient compliance and quality of life. Most of these complications can be preventable and are easy to manage. This review aimed to discuss the prevention and management strategies for various ACE procedure complications.

Pediatric Neurogenic Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction: Will My Child Ever Be out of Diapers?

CONTEXT

Managing patient and parent expectations regarding urinary and fecal continence is important with congenital conditions that produce neurogenic bladder and bowel dysfunction. Physicians need to be aware of common treatment algorithms and expected outcomes to best counsel these families.

OBJECTIVE

To systematically evaluate evidence regarding the utilization and success of various modalities in achieving continence, as well as related outcomes, in children with neurogenic bladder and bowel dysfunction.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

We performed a systematic review of the literature in PubMed/Medline in August 2019. A total of 114 publications were included in the analysis, including 49 for bladder management and 65 for bowel management.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Children with neurogenic bladder conditions achieved urinary continence 50% of the time, including 44% of children treated with nonsurgical methods and 64% with surgical interventions. Patients with neurogenic bowel problems achieved fecal continence 75% of the time, including 78% of patients treated with nonsurgical methods and 73% with surgical treatment. Surgical complications and need for revisions were high in both categories.

CONCLUSIONS

Approximately half of children with neurogenic bladder dysfunction will achieve urinary continence and about three-quarters of children with neurogenic bowel dysfunction will become fecally continent. Surgical intervention can be successful in patients refractory to nonsurgical management, but the high complication and revision rates support their use as second-line therapy. This is consistent with guidelines issued by the International Children's Continence Society.

PATIENT SUMMARY

Approximately half of children with neurogenic bladder dysfunction will achieve urinary continence, and about three-quarters of children with neurogenic bowel dysfunction will become fecally continent. Most children can be managed without surgery. Patients who do not achieve continence with nonsurgical methods frequently have success with operative procedures, but complications and requirements for additional procedures must be expected.

A comparison of surgical complications after appendicostomy and neoappendicostomy in pediatric patients

PURPOSE

There are limited data on neoappendicostomy complications owing to small patient populations. This study compares appendicostomy and neoappendicostomy procedures with an emphasis on major postoperative complications requiring either a surgical or interventional radiology procedure.

METHOD

A single-institution retrospective review included all patients with complete medical charts in the Cincinnati Children's Colorectal Database who underwent either an appendicostomy or neoappendicostomy from August 2005 through December 2016. Demographics, details of the procedure, and major postoperative complications were evaluated.

RESULTS

261 patients (appendicostomy n = 208, neoappendicostomy n = 53) with a median follow up time of 2.5 years resulted in 84 patients (appendicostomy n = 60, neoappendicostomy n = 24) experiencing a total of 118 complications requiring surgical or radiologic intervention with a significant difference between the groups (29% vs 45%, RR = 1.79 (95% CI: 1.24-2.60), p < 0.01). Skin level stricture was the most common complication (20% appendicostomies vs 30% neoappendicostomies, p = 0.13).

CONCLUSIONS

Appendicostomies and neoappendicostomies can be an effective way to manage fecal incontinence; however, 32% of our patients experienced a complication that required either a surgical or interventional radiology procedure. Patients need to be informed of the possible complications that are associated with appendicostomy and neoappendicostomy construction.

TYPE OF STUDY

Single institution retrospective review.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Neurogenic bowel dysfunction: Clinical management recommendations of the Neurologic Incontinence Committee of the Fifth International Consultation on Incontinence 2013

BACKGROUND

Evidence-based guidelines for the management of neurological disease and lower bowel dysfunction have been produced by the International Consultations on Incontinence (ICI). These are comprehensive guidelines, and were developed to have world-wide relevance.

AIMS

To update clinical management of neurogenic bowel dysfunction from the recommendations of the 4th ICI, 2009.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A series of evidence reviews and updates were performed by members of the working group. The resulting guidelines were presented at the 2012 meeting of the European Association of Urology for consultation, and modifications applied to deliver evidence based conclusions and recommendations for the scientific report of the 5th edition of the ICI in 2013.

RESULTS

The current review is a synthesis of the conclusions and recommendations, including the algorithms for initial and specialized management of neurogenic bowel dysfunction. The pathophysiology is described in terms of spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease. Assessment requires detailed history and clinical assessment, general investigations, and specialized testing, if required. Treatment primarily focuses on optimizing stool consistency and regulating bowel evacuation to improve quality of life. Symptom management covers conservative and interventional measures to promote good habits and assist stool evacuation, along with prevention of incontinence. Education is essential to achieving optimal bowel management.

DISCUSSION

The review offers a pragmatic approach to management in the context of complex pathophysiology and varied evidence base.

Contemporary short- and long-term outcomes in patients with unremitting constipation and fecal incontinence treated with an antegrade continence enema

PURPOSE

The primary aim of this study is to determine the natural history of patients who undergo an antegrade continence enema (ACE) procedure including complications, functional results, and long-term outcomes.

METHODS

Patients aged 3-18years who underwent an ACE procedure from 2008 to 2015 for unremitting constipation and fecal incontinence with at least thirty day follow-up were included. Patients with congenital anatomic disorders of the spine, rectum, and anus were excluded.

RESULTS

A total of 93 patients were included in the analysis with an average age of 10+/-4years and follow-up of 26+/-41months. The ACE procedure was rapidly effective, with 99% of patients experiencing improvement at 1month. At the end of follow-up, 83% of patients had normal bowel function, and 95% of patients noted improvement. Amongst patients with at least 24months of follow-up (n=51), 43% successfully stopped using their ACE at an average of 40+/-27months. Overall morbidity was 55%, mostly related to minor complications. However, 13% of patients required an additional operation.

CONCLUSION

The ACE procedure is very successful in the treatment of unremitting constipation with fecal incontinence in appropriately selected patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

Meta-analysis of antegrade continence enema in adults with faecal incontinence and constipation

BACKGROUND

Faecal incontinence and constipation affects up to 20 per cent of the general population, and can be a significant source of distress. The antegrade continence enema (ACE) procedure has been shown to be an effective alternative treatment option for children, but its use in adults requires clarification. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to determine outcomes of the ACE procedure in adults with faecal incontinence and constipation.

METHODS

PubMed, MEDLINE and the Cochrane Library (from January 1990 to January 2015) were searched for studies that reported outcomes of ACE in adults with faecal incontinence and constipation. The primary outcome measure was successful use of ACE in the management of symptoms, as determined by continued use at follow-up.

RESULTS

Seventeen observational studies involving 426 patients (265 female patients; median age 42 (range 17-84) years) with faecal incontinence (165 patients), constipation (209) or both (52), who had undergone the ACE procedure, were analysed. At a median follow-up of 39 months, the pooled success rate was 74·3 (95 per cent c.i. 66·1 to 82·6) per cent (P < 0·001). For patients with faecal incontinence the pooled success rate was 83·6 (75·0 to 92·1) per cent, compared with 67·7 (55·1 to 80·3) per cent in patients with constipation (both P < 0·001).

CONCLUSION

The ACE procedure is an effective long-term treatment option in patients with faecal incontinence and constipation, and should be considered before performing a definitive colostomy. Patients with faecal incontinence appear to respond better than those with constipation.

Lack of Agreement on How to Use Antegrade Enemas in Children

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to provide an overview of the existing literature regarding the outcomes of the antegrade continence enema (ACE) procedure and to assess the present practices of physicians worldwide regarding the use of the ACE.

METHODS

A search of the MEDLINE database was performed using the following criteria: having a clear definition of "successful outcome," published in full manuscript form, sample size >20 patients, age <25 years. We then conducted a survey among 23 pediatric gastroenterologists and surgeons worldwide who were known to use the ACE using an 18-item questionnaire.

RESULTS

A total of 21 articles met the inclusion criteria. Successful outcomes were reported in 15% to 100%. Thirteen studies classified the outcome as full continence (success) or incontinence (failure), with a mean successful outcome of 75.6%. The 23 physicians who completed the questionnaire differed in their opinions about indications and mandatory preoperative testing. Constipation with (78%) or without (91%) fecal incontinence, anorectal malformations (96%), and spinal abnormalities (100%) were considered suitable indications for the ACE by the majority. There was less agreement regarding the required preoperative diagnostic workup. Most physicians (70%) start infusions using saline solutions and do not add a stimulant laxative to the cleansing solution.

DISCUSSION

There is a wide variation in the reported outcome of the ACE procedure and in the way success is defined. The survey identifies important differences among physicians using the ACE. Consensus on optimal use of the ACE could improve outcome of this treatment option.

Antegrade continence enema procedure: impact on quality of life in patients with spinal cord injury

STUDY DESIGN

This is a prospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVES

Patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) often suffer from severe constipation/fecal incontinence. The antegrade continence enema (ACE) procedure is often used to control these distressing symptoms when medical management fails. Improvement in the quality of life (QOL) following the ACE procedure has been demonstrated in patients with fecal incontinence of various etiologies. We assess the impact of the ACE procedure on QOL in patients with fecal incontinence due to SCI.

SETTING

This study was conducted in the United States.

METHODS

We measured the impact of fecal incontinence on QOL in patients with SCI undergoing ACE using the validated fecal incontinence quality of life (FIQL) QOL instrument. The FIQL scores QOL in four domains: lifestyle, coping/behavior, depression/self-perception and embarrassment. Surveys were prospectively administered before and after surgery. Preoperative and postoperative survey scores were compared using two-sample T-test.

RESULTS

Between 2003 and 2010, the ACE procedure was performed on 17 patients with SCI, including 10 paraplegic and seven quadriplegic patients with an average age of 33 years at the time of surgery. Scores in all four QOL realms assessed by the FIQL instrument improved significantly following the ACE procedure. Stomal stenosis requiring channel revision occurred in three patients and was the most common complication.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study to our knowledge that assesses the impact of the ACE procedure on the QOL in patients with SCI. Using a validated questionnaire, we demonstrated significant improvement in QOL related to fecal incontinence following the ACE procedure in these patients who are severely affected by their bowel dysfunction.

The antegrade continence enema procedure and total anorectal reconstruction

Patients may present with anal incontinence (AI) following repair of a congenital anorectal anomaly years previously, or require total anorectal reconstruction (TAR) following radical rectal extirpation, most commonly for rectal cancer. Others may require removal of their colostomy following sphincter excision for Fournier's gangrene, or in cases of severe perineal trauma. Most of the data pertaining to antegrade continence enema (the ACE or Malone procedure) comes from the pediatric literature in the management of children with AI, but also with supervening chronic constipation, where the quality of life and compliance with this technique appears superior to retrograde colonic washouts. Total anorectal reconstruction requires an anatomical or physical supplement to the performance of a perineal colostomy, which may include an extrinsic muscle interposition (which may or may not be 'dynamized'), construction of a neorectal reservoir, implantation of an incremental artificial bowel sphincter or creation of a terminal, smooth-muscle neosphincter. The advantages and disadvantages of these techniques and their outcome are presented here.

Management of faecal incontinence and constipation in adults with central neurological diseases

BACKGROUND

People with central neurological disease or injury have a much higher risk of both faecal incontinence and constipation than the general population. There is often a fine line between the two symptoms, with any management intended to ameliorate one risking precipitating the other. Bowel problems are observed to be the cause of much anxiety and may reduce quality of life in these people. Current bowel management is largely empirical, with a limited research base. This is an update of a Cochrane review first published in 2001 and subsequently updated in 2003 and 2006. The review is relevant to individuals with any disease directly and chronically affecting the central nervous system (post-traumatic, degenerative, ischaemic or neoplastic), such as multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, cerebrovascular disease, Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effects of management strategies for faecal incontinence and constipation in people with a neurological disease or injury affecting the central nervous system.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Incontinence Group Trials Register (searched 8 June 2012), which includes searches of the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE and MEDLINE In-Process as well as handsearching of journals and conference proceedings; and all reference lists of relevant articles.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised and quasi-randomised trials evaluating any type of conservative or surgical intervention for the management of faecal incontinence and constipation in people with central neurological disease or injury were selected. Specific therapies for the treatment of neurological diseases that indirectly affect bowel dysfunction were also considered.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

At least two review authors independently assessed the risk of bias of eligible trials and independently extracted data from the included trials using a range of pre-specified outcome measures.

MAIN RESULTS

Twenty trials involving 902 people were included. Oral medications There was evidence from individual small trials that people with Parkinson's disease had a statistically significant improvement in the number of bowel motions or successful bowel care routines per week when fibre (psyllium) (mean difference (MD) -2.2 bowel motions, 95% confidence interval (CI) -3.3 to -1.4) or oral laxative (isosmotic macrogol electrolyte solution) (MD 2.9 bowel motions per week, 95% CI 1.48 to 4.32) are used compared with placebo. One trial in people with spinal cord injury showed statistically significant improvement in total bowel care time comparing intramuscular neostigmine-glycopyrrolate (anticholinesterase plus an anticholinergic drug) with placebo (MD 23.3 minutes, 95% CI 4.68 to 41.92).Five studies reported the use of cisapride and tegaserod in people with spinal cord injuries or Parkinson's disease. These drugs have since been withdrawn from the market due to adverse effects; as they are no longer available they have been removed from this review. Rectal stimulants One small trial in people with spinal cord injuries compared two bisacodyl suppositories, one polyethylene glycol-based (PGB) and one hydrogenated vegetable oil-based (HVB). The trial found that the PGB bisacodyl suppository significantly reduced the mean defaecation period (PGB 20 minutes versus HVB 36 minutes, P < 0.03) and mean total time for bowel care (PGB 43 minutes versus HVB 74.5 minutes, P < 0.01) compared with the HVB bisacodyl suppository.Physical interventions There was evidence from one small trial with 31 participants that abdominal massage statistically improved the number of bowel motions in people who had a stroke compared with no massage (MD 1.7 bowel motions per week, 95% CI 2.22 to 1.18). A small feasibility trial including 30 individuals with multiple sclerosis also found evidence to support the use of abdominal massage. Constipation scores were statistically better with the abdominal massage during treatment although this was not supported by a change in outcome measures (for example the neurogenic bowel dysfunction score).One small trial in people with spinal cord injury showed statistically significant improvement in total bowel care time using electrical stimulation of abdominal muscles compared with no electrical stimulation (MD 29.3 minutes, 95% CI 7.35 to 51.25).There was evidence from one trial with a low risk of bias that for people with spinal cord injury transanal irrigation, compared against conservative bowel care, statistically improved constipation scores, neurogenic bowel dysfunction score, faecal incontinence score and total time for bowel care (MD 27.4 minutes, 95% CI 7.96 to 46.84). Patients were also more satisfied with this method.Other interventions In one trial in stroke patients, there appeared to be a short term benefit (less than six months) to patients in terms of the number of bowel motions per week with a one-off educational intervention from nurses (a structured nurse assessment leading to targeted education versus routine care), but this did not persist at 12 months. A trial in individuals with spinal cord injury found that a stepwise protocol did not reduce the need for oral laxatives and manual evacuation of stool.Finally, one further trial reported in abstract form showed that oral carbonated water (rather than tap water) improved constipation scores in people who had had a stroke.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is still remarkably little research on this common and, to patients, very significant issue of bowel management. The available evidence is almost uniformly of low methodological quality. The clinical significance of some of the research findings presented here is difficult to interpret, not least because each intervention has only been addressed in individual trials, against control rather than compared against each other, and the interventions are very different from each other.There was very limited evidence from individual trials in favour of a bulk-forming laxative (psyllium), an isosmotic macrogol laxative, abdominal massage, electrical stimulation and an anticholinesterase-anticholinergic drug combination (neostigmine-glycopyrrolate) compared to no treatment or controls. There was also evidence in favour of transanal irrigation (compared to conservative management), oral carbonated (rather than tap) water and abdominal massage with lifestyle advice (compared to lifestyle advice alone). However, these findings need to be confirmed by larger well-designed controlled trials which should include evaluation of the acceptability of the intervention to patients and the effect on their quality of life.

Management of faecal incontinence and constipation in adults with central neurological diseases

BACKGROUND

People with central neurological disease or injury have a much higher risk of both faecal incontinence and constipation than the general population. There is often a fine line between the two symptoms, with any management intended to ameliorate one risking precipitating the other. Bowel problems are observed to be the cause of much anxiety and may reduce quality of life in these people. Current bowel management is largely empirical, with a limited research base. This is an update of a Cochrane review first published in 2001 and subsequently updated in 2003 and 2006. The review is relevant to individuals with any disease directly and chronically affecting the central nervous system (post-traumatic, degenerative, ischaemic or neoplastic), such as multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, cerebrovascular disease, Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effects of management strategies for faecal incontinence and constipation in people with a neurological disease or injury affecting the central nervous system.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Incontinence Group Trials Register (searched 8 June 2012), which includes searches of the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE and MEDLINE In-Process as well as handsearching of journals and conference proceedings; and all reference lists of relevant articles.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised and quasi-randomised trials evaluating any type of conservative or surgical intervention for the management of faecal incontinence and constipation in people with central neurological disease or injury were selected. Specific therapies for the treatment of neurological diseases that indirectly affect bowel dysfunction were also considered.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently assessed the risk of bias of eligible trials and independently extracted data from the included trials using a range of pre-specified outcome measures.

MAIN RESULTS

Twenty trials involving 902 people were included.Oral medicationsThere was evidence from individual small trials that people with Parkinson's disease had a statistically significant improvement in the number of bowel motions or successful bowel care routines per week when fibre (psyllium) (mean difference (MD) -2.2 bowel motions, 95% confidence interval (CI) -3.3 to -1.4) or oral laxative (isosmotic macrogol electrolyte solution) (MD 2.9 bowel motions per week, 95% CI 1.48 to 4.32) are used compared with placebo. One trial in people with spinal cord injury showed statistically significant improvement in total bowel care time comparing intramuscular neostigmine-glycopyrrolate (anticholinesterase plus an anticholinergic drug) with placebo (MD 23.3 minutes, 95% CI 4.68 to 41.92).Five studies reported the use of cisapride and tegaserod in people with spinal cord injuries or Parkinson's disease. These drugs have since been withdrawn from the market due to adverse effects; as they are no longer available they have been removed from this review.Rectal stimulantsOne small trial in people with spinal cord injuries compared two bisacodyl suppositories, one polyethylene glycol-based (PGB) and one hydrogenated vegetable oil-based (HVB). The trial found that the PGB bisacodyl suppository significantly reduced the mean defaecation period (PGB 20 minutes versus HVB 36 minutes, P < 0.03) and mean total time for bowel care (PGB 43 minutes versus HVB 74.5 minutes, P < 0.01) compared with the HVB bisacodyl suppository.Physical interventionsThere was evidence from one small trial with 31 participants that abdominal massage statistically improved the number of bowel motions in people who had a stroke compared with no massage (MD 1.7 bowel motions per week, 95% CI 2.22 to 1.18). A small feasibility trial including 30 individuals with multiple sclerosis also found evidence to support the use of abdominal massage. Constipation scores were statistically better with the abdominal massage during treatment although this was not supported by a change in outcome measures (for example the neurogenic bowel dysfunction score).One small trial in people with spinal cord injury showed statistically significant improvement in total bowel care time using electrical stimulation of abdominal muscles compared with no electrical stimulation (MD 29.3 minutes, 95% CI 7.35 to 51.25).There was evidence from one trial with a low risk of bias that for people with spinal cord injury transanal irrigation, compared against conservative bowel care, statistically improved constipation scores, neurogenic bowel dysfunction score, faecal incontinence score and total time for bowel care (MD 27.4 minutes, 95% CI 7.96 to 46.84). Patients were also more satisfied with this method.Other interventionsIn one trial in stroke patients, there appeared to be a short term benefit (less than six months) to patients in terms of the number of bowel motions per week with a one-off educational intervention from nurses (a structured nurse assessment leading to targeted education versus routine care), but this did not persist at 12 months. A trial in individuals with spinal cord injury found that a stepwise protocol did not reduce the need for oral laxatives and manual evacuation of stool.Finally, one further trial reported in abstract form showed that oral carbonated water (rather than tap water) improved constipation scores in people who had had a stroke.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is still remarkably little research on this common and, to patients, very significant issue of bowel management. The available evidence is almost uniformly of low methodological quality. The clinical significance of some of the research findings presented here is difficult to interpret, not least because each intervention has only been addressed in individual trials, against control rather than compared against each other, and the interventions are very different from each other.There was very limited evidence from individual trials in favour of a bulk-forming laxative (psyllium), an isosmotic macrogol laxative, abdominal massage, electrical stimulation and an anticholinesterase-anticholinergic drug combination (neostigmine-glycopyrrolate) compared to no treatment or controls. There was also evidence in favour of transanal irrigation (compared to conservative management), oral carbonated (rather than tap) water and abdominal massage with lifestyle advice (compared to lifestyle advice alone). However, these findings need to be confirmed by larger well-designed controlled trials which should include evaluation of the acceptability of the intervention to patients and the effect on their quality of life.

Outcome of antegrade continent enema (ACE) procedures in children and young adults

OBJECTIVE

Intractable incontinence affects a large number of children and young adults in the US. The goal of this study is to evaluate the long-term outcomes of surgical access for administration of antegrade continence enemas (ACE) in affected children and young adults.

METHODS

Patients who underwent surgical procedure to enable administration of ACE from 1994 to 2011 were retrospectively reviewed. Data collected included patient demographics, primary diagnosis, surgical technique, conduit used, complications, follow-up duration, and social continence.

RESULTS

Sixty eighty patients underwent surgery to enable ACE; mean follow up was 61 months. Enteral conduit (EC) was performed in 19 patients, tube cecostomy catheters (CC) in 49. Meningomyelocele was diagnosed in 60% of patients. Mean age was 11 (1.67-53) years. Complications included tube dislodgement (43%), granulation tissue (46%), site infection (13%), leakage (32%), break in the tube (6%) and tract stenosis (6%). Complete social continence was achieved in 68%, partial continence was achieved in 29%, and no benefit was achieved in 3% of patients. The rate of complications and incontinence resolution following CC was 78% and 66%, and following EC 89% and 74%. The differences were not statistically significant. CC patients developed granulation tissue more frequently (53%) and leaks of fecal material less frequently (20%) compared to EC patients (26% and 53%) (p < 0.05 and < 0.01). Although children 7 years or younger developed more overall complications (94%) than older patients (69%; p < 0.05), there was not a significant difference in the frequency of any one complication or in the rate of continence, between the two groups. Multivariate analysis showed that EC is three times more likely to be complicated by fecal leakage. CC patients are at greater risk to develop granulation tissue (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Most patients achieved social continence and improved hygiene with the aid of ACE. Younger children also benefited greatly from institution of ACE. CC was associated with fewer major complications such as leak of fecal contents than EC but required regular tube changes.

Review of organic causes of fecal incontinence in children: evaluation and treatment

Even though fecal incontinence (FI) in children is most commonly the result of functional constipation, there are organic conditions that can be associated with incontinence. FI has a major impact on the quality of life of those children who experience it. The general objectives of any bowel program are to achieve predictability and independence. This is achieved by manipulating colonic transit and stool consistency and by producing more controlled evacuations, usually with the use of rectal interventions. Dietary interventions and medications can be used to change stool consistency or to manipulate transit by accelerating or slowing it down. Biofeedback or other interventions that increase sphincter pressure can also be used to improve anorectal function. Enemas or suppositories can be used to empty the sigmoid colon in a more controlled manner. With the recent advent of the antegrade colonic enemas, the patient can have predictable bowel movements and become independent.

The first 5-year follow up of distal antegrade continence enema stomas

AIM

We investigated 5-year results of distal sites for antegrade continence enemas (DACE).

METHODS

Patients with DACE sites placed more than 5 years previously were identified. Details of procedures were obtained. Parents, and patients over 18, were telephoned and asked to answer a standardised questionnaire.

RESULTS

31 patients were identified. Median age at DACE placement was 7 years (range 3-20). Median follow up was 92 months (range 66-145). 22 tubes were placed endoscopically, 7 were placed at open surgery and 2 at laparoscopic surgery. 28 responses to the telephone questionnaire were obtained. Of these, 15 were still using their DACE and 13 had stopped. Of those who had ceased washouts: 7 reported resolution of symptoms, 4 had a colostomy, 1 an ileostomy and 1 patient had abandoned their DACE. In patients using their stoma, washouts took a median of 5 min, with a median time to result of 25 min. 10 patients reported no soiling, 4 monthly and 1 daily soiling. Median satisfaction score was 8/10 (range 1-10/10). 24 (85%) said that they would recommend a DACE.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first report of 5-year follow up of a series of patients performing DACE washouts. The results are encouraging.

The appendix as a conduit for antegrade continence enemas in patients with anorectal malformations: lessons learned from 163 cases treated over 18 years

INTRODUCTION

The antegrade continence enema (ACE) has been shown to be a safe and effective method for managing fecal incontinence in the pediatric population. The purpose of this study was to examine our experience with the ACE procedure using the appendix as a catheterizable conduit in children with anorectal malformations (ARMs).

METHODS

We reviewed the charts of all patients who underwent an ACE procedure using the appendix as a catheterizable conduit between January 1992 and January 2010. Preoperative diagnosis (ARM type), operative details, functional outcomes, and postoperative complications were assessed. Technical modifications over time included selective cecoplication, implementation of the umbilical V-V appendicoplasty technique, and laparoscopy for cecal mobilization.

RESULTS

Mean age was 9.9 ± 0.6 years, and 67% were male. The most common preoperative diagnosis was rectourethral fistula in boys (39%) and persistent cloaca in girls (61%). Forty-five complications occurred in 41 patients with an overall incidence of 25.6% (stricture, 18%; leakage, 6%; prolapse, 4%; intestinal obstruction, 0.6%). The incidence of stomal leakage was lower in patients when a cecoplication was performed (2.9% [4/138] vs 29.4% [5/17]; P < .01), and the incidence of stricture was lower in patients when the umbilical anastomosis was created using the V-V appendicoplasty technique (11% [11/100] vs 30% [18/60]; P < .01). Successful management of incontinence was reported by 96% of all patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The ACE procedure using the umbilical V-V appendicoplasty provides an effective and cosmetically superior means for bowel management in children with ARMs. The rate of late complications is not insignificant however, and preventative strategies should focus on careful operative technique and ensuring compliance with catheterization protocols well past the initial postoperative period.

Long-term follow-up of patients after antegrade continence enema procedure

BACKGROUND

Antegrade continence enema (ACE) has become an important therapeutic modality in the treatment of intractable constipation and fecal incontinence. There are little data available on the long-term performance of the ACE procedure in children.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients who underwent the ACE procedure was conducted. Irrigation characteristics and complications were noted. Outcome was assessed for individual encounters based on frequency of bowel movements, incontinence, pain, and predictability.

RESULTS

One hundred seventeen patients underwent an ACE. One hundred five patients had at least 6 months of follow-up, and were included in the analysis. Diagnoses included myelodysplasia (39%), functional intractable constipation (26%), anorectal malformations (21%), nonrelaxing internal anal sphincter (7%), cerebral palsy (3%), and other diagnoses (4%). The average follow-up was 68 months (range 7-178 months). At the last follow-up, 69% of patients had successful bowel management. Of the 31% of patients who did not have successful bowel management, 20% were using the ACE despite suboptimal results, 10% required surgical removal, and 2% were not using the ACE because of behavioral opposition to it. Patients were started on normal saline, but were switched to GoLYTELY (PEG-3350 and electrolyte solution) if there was an inadequate response (61% at final encounter). Additives were needed in 34% of patients. The average irrigation dose was 23 ± 0.7 mL/kg. The average toilet sitting time was 51.7 ± 3.5 minutes, with infusions running for 12.1 ± 1.2 minutes. Stomal complications occurred in 63% (infection, leakage, and stenosis) of patients, 33% required surgical revision and 6% eventually required diverting ostomies.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term use of the ACE gives successful results in 69% of patients, whereas 63% had a stoma-related complication and 33% required surgical revision of the stoma.

After the honeymoon comes divorce: long-term use of the antegrade continence enema procedure

BACKGROUND

Having reported that 18% of children discontinue use of the antegrade continence enema (ACE) after 5 years, we aimed to determine long-term use after an ACE procedure.

METHODS

A postal/telephone questionnaire was conducted. Subjects were consecutive children undergoing an ACE between 1993 and 1999. Outcome measures were use of ACE, reasons for nonuse, complications, and overall satisfaction.

RESULTS

Of 84 eligible subjects, data were available on 61 (73%) aged 22.4 years (15.5-35.1 years). Underlying diagnoses included spina bifida (n = 27), anorectal malformations (n = 18), constipation (n = 11), Hirschsprung's disease (n = 1), sacral agenesis (n = 2), and trauma/tumor (n = 2). Follow-up was 11.02 years (8.34-14.39 years). Thirty-six (59%) of 61 patients were still using their ACE. Reasons for nonuse were lack of effectiveness (n = 14), complications (n = 5), psychologic issues (n = 2), and poor compliance (n = 2). There was no association between diagnosis and nonuse (chi(2), P = .63). In those still using ACE, the overall satisfaction score was 4.1 (1-5). Several individuals reported feeling abandoned on becoming adults and losing the support they had in childhood.

CONCLUSION

There is a late "failure" rate for the ACE procedure. However, satisfaction was high among those still using the ACE. This study further emphasizes the need for robust transitional care arrangements.

Antegrade continence enema in the treatment of congenital fecal incontinence beyond childhood

PURPOSE

The role of antegrade continence enema for the treatment of congenital fecal incontinence in adult patients remains unclear.

MATERIALS

Twenty-seven patients, median age 19 (range, 17-43) years, with congenital fecal incontinence underwent surgery for antegrade continence enema and were prospectively followed up for functional outcome after a median of 25 (range, 3-117) months.

RESULTS

The diagnoses included myelodysplasia (n = 14), anorectal malformations (n = 6), and others (n = 7). Antegrade continence enema conduits included appendicostomy (n = 22) and cecal (n = 2), ileal (n = 2), and sigmoid (n = 1) tubes. Thirteen (48 percent) patients had complications. Eighteen (66 percent) patients became fully continent, six (23 percent) had minor, and three (11 percent) major soiling. Antegrade continence enema became unnecessary in three patients (11 percent). Treatment with antegrade continence enema failed in three cases. Of the 21 patients who continued with antegrade continence enema, 16 (76 percent) are fully continent, and bowel function and quality of life was improved in 15 (71 percent) and 13 (62 percent) patients, respectively. The scores of convenience (1 = easy, 5 = difficult) and overall satisfaction (1 = poor, 10 = excellent) were median 2 (range, 1-4) and 8 (range, 3-10).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite numerous complications and occasional treatment failures, 90 percent of adult patients with congenital fecal incontinence benefited from antegrade continence enema.

Percutaneous Cecostomy for Management of Fecal Incontinence in Pediatric Patients

PURPOSE

To report the authors' experience with percutaneous cecostomy and demonstrate its effectiveness in the management of pediatric patients with fecal incontinence.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between March 2002 and November 2006, 21 percutaneous cecostomy procedures were performed in 20 patients in whom classical therapeutic approaches for the management of fecal incontinence had failed. Eighteen patients had anorectal malformations, one had myelomeningocele, and one had chronic constipation. All procedures were performed under general anesthesia and fluoroscopic guidance. In all cases, an 8.5-F Dawson-Mueller catheter was placed in the cecum and exchanged after 45 days with a cecostomy button (ie, Trapdoor catheter). Data regarding complications, effectiveness of treatment, satisfaction, and quality of life were obtained by interviewing the patients' parents at follow-up consultation.

RESULTS

Nineteen of 20 procedures were technically successful. There were no major complications. All patients' symptoms of incontinence improved. Ninety percent of patients in our series (n = 18) reported satisfaction with the procedure, mainly related to their independence and quality of life.

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous cecostomy is a safe and effective procedure for the management of pediatric patients with fecal incontinence. Percutaneous cecostomy allows antegrade and more physiologic colon irrigation, avoiding the need for multiple retrograde enemas, achieving more patient independence, and improving quality of life.

Endoscopically placed caecostomy buttons: a trial ACE procedure

The use of the antegrade continence enema (ACE) is becoming more widespread. Preliminary studies have been promising, but the procedure is not universally successful. A colonoscopic insertion of a caecostomy button is a relatively minor procedure. This allows the ACE to be used for a trial period to assess whether a permanent procedure would be beneficial. If successful, enemas can be continued by the caecostomy, or a formal ACE can be performed. We report a series of five patients who underwent staged endoscopic insertion of a MIC-KEY caecostomy button, and we discuss the technical aspects of the procedure.

Laparoscopic Antegrade Continent Enema through VQ Stoma Skin Flaps Using Two Ports: Long-Term Follow-Up

PURPOSE

To introduce a simple technique for laparoscopic appendicostomy using two ports through "V" and quadrilateral "Q"-shaped skin flaps to create antegrade continent enemas in children with a neuropathic bowel incontinence or intractable constipation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Laparoscopic appendicostomy was performed in 19 children through a V-shaped skin flap at McBurney's point. The first port was inserted into the peritoneal cavity under direct vision, and the second port was inserted after peritoneal insufflation. The appendix was brought to the abdominal surface, and its distal tip was resected and intubated. The spatulated appendix was used to create an anastomosis to the V-shaped skin flap. The appendix was then covered by a quadrilateral skin flap.

RESULTS

All patients were discharged from the hospital within 3 days (range 1-3 days) after surgery with a catheter in place. An irrigation regimen was initiated 3 weeks after surgery. All but one patient became continent without constipation and diaper free. The duration of follow-up ranged from 15 to 54 months (mean 35.8 months).

CONCLUSION

The laparoscopic antegrade continent enema through the VQ stoma skin flaps using two ports ensures rapid recovery, an excellent cosmetic appearance, and minimal complications in long-term follow-up. This is the first report of this technique, which shows promising results in stoma reconstruction.

Management of faecal incontinence and constipation in adults with central neurological diseases

BACKGROUND

People with neurological disease have a much higher risk of both faecal incontinence and constipation than the general population. There is often a fine line between the two conditions, with any management intended to ameliorate one risking precipitating the other. Bowel problems are observed to be the cause of much anxiety and may reduce quality of life in these people. Current bowel management is largely empirical with a limited research base.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effects of management strategies for faecal incontinence and constipation in people with neurological diseases affecting the central nervous system.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Cochrane Incontinence Group Specialised Trials Register (searched 26 January 2005), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (Issue 2, 2005), MEDLINE (January 1966 to May 2005), EMBASE (January 1998 to May 2005) and all reference lists of relevant articles.

SELECTION CRITERIA

All randomised or quasi-randomised trials evaluating any types of conservative or surgical measure for the management of faecal incontinence and constipation in people with neurological diseases were selected. Specific therapies for the treatment of neurological diseases that indirectly affect bowel dysfunction were also considered.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two reviewers assessed the methodological quality of eligible trials and two reviewers independently extracted data from included trials using a range of pre-specified outcome measures.

MAIN RESULTS

Ten trials were identified by the search strategy, most were small and of poor quality. Oral medications for constipation were the subject of four trials. Cisapride does not seem to have clinically useful effects in people with spinal cord injuries (three trials). Psyllium was associated with increased stool frequency in people with Parkinson's disease but did not alter colonic transit time (one trial). Prucalopride, an enterokinetic did not demonstrate obvious benefits in this patient group (one study). Some rectal preparations to initiate defaecation produced faster results than others (one trial). Different time schedules for administration of rectal medication may produce different bowel responses (one trial). Mechanical evacuation may be more effective than oral or rectal medication (one trial). There appears to be a benefit to patients in one-off educational interventions from nurses. The clinical significance of any of these results is difficult to interpret.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is still remarkably little research on this common and, to patients, very significant condition. It is not possible to draw any recommendation for bowel care in people with neurological diseases from the trials included in this review. Bowel management for these people must remain empirical until well-designed controlled trials with adequate numbers and clinically relevant outcome measures become available.

Colonic manometry as predictor of cecostomy success in children with defecation disorders

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to define the predictive value of colonic manometry and contrast enema before cecostomy placement in children with defecation disorders.

METHODS

Medical records, contrast enema, and colonic manometry studies were reviewed for 32 children with defecation disorders who underwent cecostomy placement between 1999 and 2004. Diagnoses included idiopathic constipation (n = 13), Hirschsprung's disease (n = 2), cerebral palsy (n = 1), imperforate anus (n = 6), spinal abnormality (n = 6), and anal with spinal abnormality (n = 4). Contrast enemas were evaluated for the presence of anatomic abnormalities and the degree of colonic dilatation. Colonic manometry was considered normal when high-amplitude propagating contractions (HAPC) occurred from proximal to distal colon. Clinical success was defined as normal defecation frequency with no or occasional fecal incontinence.

RESULTS

Colonic manometry was done on 32 and contrast enema on 24 patients before cecostomy. At follow-up, 25 patients (78%) fulfilled the success criteria. Absence of HAPC throughout the colon was related to unsuccessful outcome (P = .03). Colonic response with normal HAPC after bisacodyl administration was predictive of success (P = .03). Presence of colonic dilatation was not associated with colonic dysmotility.

CONCLUSION

Colonic manometry is helpful in predicting the outcome after cecostomy. Patients with generalized colonic dysmotility are less likely to benefit from use of antegrade enemas via cecostomy. Normal colonic response to bisacodyl predicts favorable outcome.

Are cecal wrap and fixation necessary for antegrade colonic enema appendicostomy?

INTRODUCTION

In antegrade colonic enema (ACE) appendicostomy, cecal fixation on the inside of the abdominal wall and cecal wrap around the base of the appendix are often performed as an antireflux procedure. Whether cecal fixation and wrap and fixation (FW) are necessary is not known. In a retrospective study, we compared laparoscopic and open procedure with FW (LACEfw+ and OACEfw+) with laparoscopic procedure without FW (LACEfw-).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between 1997 and 2004, 44 consecutive patients underwent an ACE appendicostomy for fecal incontinence. Eleven patients (1997-2000) had OACEfw+, 14 patients (2001 to 2003) had LACEfw+, and nineteen (2003-2004) had LACEfw-. The primary disorders included meningomyelocele (n = 17), imperforate anus (n = 12), sacral agenesis (n = 1), presacral teratoma (n = 1), osteosarcoma (n = 1), diastematomyelia (n = 1), tuberose sclerosis (n = 1), Hirschsprung's disease (n = 2), Down syndrome-associated refractory constipation (n = 1), Jacobsen syndrome (n = 1), and chronic constipation (n = 1). Twenty-eight patients had undergone previous abdominal surgery. Operative time, theatre time, length of hospitalization, and complications related with procedure and stoma were compared among the 3 groups.

RESULTS

Age and age-adjusted body mass index did not differ statistically among the 3 groups. One LACEfw+ and 2 LACEfw- were converted. The median operative time was 38 minutes (range, 23-65 minutes) for OACEfw+, 78 minutes (50-135 minutes) for LACEfw+, and 40 minutes (25-120 minutes) for LACEfw- (P < .05). The median theatre time for OACEfw+ was 71 minutes (range, 50-107 minutes), for LACEfw+ 123 minutes (range, 70-173 minutes), and for LACEfw+ 75 minutes (57-160 minutes) (P < .05). The median length of hospitalization was 6 days (range, 3-8 days) for OACEfw+, 5 days (4-6 days) for LACEfw+, and 4 days (2-9 days) for LACEfw- (P < .05). Stomal revisions were required in 6 of 10 patients with open ACE, 7 of 14 patients with LACEfw+, and 2 of 19 patients with LACEfw-; stomal leak occurred in 3 of 11, 3 of 14, and 0 of 19 patients, respectively. Median follow-up time was 62 months (range, 36-94 months) for OACEfw+, 28 months (25-36 months) for LACEfw+, and 9 months (1-20 months) for LACEfw-.

CONCLUSION

Operative time for LACEfw+ was twice as long as that of LACEfw- and OACEfw+. Hospital time was shortest in LACEfw-. Stomal complications occurred in all 3 procedures. After a medium time follow-up, it appears that FW is unnecessary for ACE appendicostomy.

The antegrade continence enema successfully treats idiopathic slow-transit constipation

BACKGROUND

Antegrade continence enemas (ACEs) are successful for constipation and/or fecal incontinence caused by anorectal malformations or spina bifida but have been thought to be less successful in the treatment for patients with colonic dysmotility. We studied the long-term efficacy of ACE in a large group of patients with idiopathic slow-transit constipation (STC).

METHODS

We identified 56 children with an appendicostomy for ACE with radiologically proven STC. An independent investigator (SKK) performed confidential telephone interviews.

RESULTS

We assessed 42 of 56 children (31 boys) of mean age 13.1 years (range, 6.9-25). Mean follow-up was at 48 months (range, 3-118). Mean symptom duration before appendicostomy was 7.5 years (range, 1.4-17.4). Indications for appendicostomy were soiling (29/42), inadequate stool evacuation (7/42), and recurrent hospital admissions for nasogastric washouts (6/42). Both quality of life (Templeton quality of life [P < .0001]) and continence (modified Holschneider continence score [P < .0001]) improved with ACE. Soiling frequency decreased in 32 of 42 (11/32 completely continent). Thirty-seven of 42 children had reduced abdominal pain severity (P < .0001) and frequency (P < .0001). Complications included granulation tissue (33/42), stomal infection (18/42), and washout leakage (16/42). Fifteen of 42 children ceased using the appendicostomy (7/15 symptoms resolved). Thirty-five of 42 families felt that their aspirations had been met.

CONCLUSIONS

Antegrade continence enemas were successful in 34 (81%) of 42 children with STC, contradicting views that ACEs are less effective in patients with colonic dysmotility.

Management of Fecal Incontinence in Children Without Functional Fecal Retention

The management of the fecal incontinence in children is difficult, and its social consequences are usually devastating. The general objectives of any bowel program are to produce social continence, predictability, and eventually independence. How to achieve those goals depends in part on the underlying condition. In children, fecal incontinence can occur from a variety of conditions. The most common is overflow incontinence from functional fecal retention, but it can also occur in otherwise healthy children with functional nonretentive fecal soiling or in children with organic causes of fecal incontinence, such as congenital malformations, or any other condition affecting the anorectum, anal sphincters, or the spinal cord. The therapeutic regimen that is recommended in patients with nonretentive fecal soiling consists of explanation and support for the child and parents, a nonaccusatory approach, and a toilet training program with a rewarding system. Biofeedback does not play an important role, and laxatives need to be used with caution, as they may exacerbate the incontinence. For those patients with congenital/neuropathic incontinence a combination of maneuvers to change stool consistency, colonic transit, anorectal function, and rectosigmoid evacuation is used. Stool consistency can be changed with the use of dietary interventions or medications. Stool transit can be slowed (antimotility agents) or accelerated (laxatives) with the use of medications. Anorectal function can be improved with the use of biofeedback or procedures to alter sphincter pressure, and the production of a bowel movement can be induced with maneuvers to empty the sigmoid (suppositories, enemas). With the recent advent of the Antegrade Colonic Enema (ACE), the patient is then able to be predictable and independent. This procedure creates a continent conduit from the skin to the cecum that can be catheterized or accessed for self-administration of enemas. The ACE has revolutionized the treatment of children with fecal incontinence.