Functional Anorectal Disorders Research Articles

London Protocol under water-perfused HRM in a healthy population, towards novel 3D manometric parameters in an evaluation of anorectal functional disorders

Background/AimLondon Protocol (LP) and Classification allied to high-resolution manometry (HRM) technological evolution has updated and enhanced the diagnostic armamentarium in anorectal disorders. This study aims to evaluate LP reproducibility under water-perfused HRM, provide normal data and new parameters based on 3D and healthy comparison studies under perfusional HRM.MethodsFifty healthy (25 F) underwent water-perfused 36 channel HRM based on LP at resting, squeeze, cough, push, and rectal sensory. Additional 3D manometric parameters were: pressure-volume (PV) 104mmHg2.cm (resting, short and long squeeze, cough); highest and lowest pressure asymmetry (resting, short squeeze, and cough). Complementary parameters (CP) were: resting (mean pressure, functional anal canal length); short squeeze (mean and maximum absolute squeeze pressure), endurance (fatigue rate, fatigue rate index, capacity to sustain); cough (anorectal gradient pressure); push (rectum-anal gradient pressure, anal canal relaxation percent); recto-anal inhibitory reflex (anal canal relaxation percent).ResultsNo difference to genders: resting (LP, CP, and 3D); short squeeze (highest pressure asymmetry); endurance (CP); cough (CP, highest and lowest pressure asymmetry); push (gradient pressure); rectal sensory. Higher pressure in men: short squeeze (maximum incremental, absolute, and mean pressure, PV, lowest pressure asymmetry); long squeeze (PV); cough (anal canal and rectum maximum pressure, anal canal PV); push (anal canal and rectum maximum pressure). Anal canal relaxation was higher in women (push).ConclusionsLP reproducibility is feasible under water-perfused HRM, and comparative studies could bring similarity to dataset expansion. Novel 3D parameters need further studies with healthy and larger data to be validated and for disease comparisons.Key points• London Protocol and Classification allied with the technological evolution of HRM (software and probes) has refined the diagnostic armamentarium in anorectal disorders.• Novel 3D and deepening the analysis of manometric parameters before the London Classification as a contributory diagnostic tool.• Comparison of healthy volunteers according to the London Protocol under a perfusional high-resolution system could establish equivalence points.

Normal Values of High Resolution Anorectal Manometry in 132 Romanian Healthy People.

The primary method for assessing anorectal function is high resolution anorectal manometry (HRAM). It is a useful tool in the diagnosis of different anorectal functional disorders such as fecal incontinence or dyssynergia. The aim of the present study was to propose a new set of normal values to be used in practice for East-European individuals, as it was proven that the results are highly influenced by race and sociocultural status. We conducted a study based on anorectal manometric values of healthy volunteers analyzed at Clinic Fundeni Institute, Bucharest, Romania, between 2017 and 2022. The anorectal manometry was performed using a solid-state catheter (Diversatek, 23 pressure sensors). All anorectal measurement values were analyzed using the Bioview Software Analysys, respecting the timing and the order from the standardized IAPWG protocol. Manometric measurements were summarized using mean, median, standard deviation, minimum and maximum values. The impact of age and gender on 8 different manometric parameters was further analyzed. Normal ranges for all numeric variables were estimated using the 5th and 95th percentiles of the measurements. A total of 132 subjects (97 females, 35 males) were enrolled in the study. Median age was similar between groups (54 vs. 55 years). The values for rectal propulsion, anal gradient and anal relaxation proved to be higher in females under 54 years as opposed to older women. The values for resting pressure, maximum squeeze pressure, incremental squeeze pressure were significantly higher in males younger than 54. Regardless of age, values for maximum squeeze pressure, incremental squeeze pressure, duration of squeeze and rectal propulsion were found to be significantly higher in males than in females. Normal values of HRAM in healthy volunteers are presented in a table at the end of the study. The data presented in the current study are of high value and have a great impact on clinical practice, being the first study offering a spectrum of the normal values for HRAM in an Eastern Europe population.

High Prevalence of Anorectal Dysfunction in Ambulatory Patients with Chronic Constipation, Regardless of Colon Transit Time.

Classification of chronic constipation (CC) into its three subtypes of slow transit constipation, defecation disorder and normal transit constipation, may improve its multifaceted management. We assessed the merits of the London classification in patients with CC, who were studied by both wireless motility capsule (WMC) and high-resolution anorectal manometry (HR-ARM), examining their relative utilities in decision-making.s PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospective, community-based study of prospectively collected data on patients with CC by Rome IV criteria, who underwent WMC and HR-ARM, Balloon Expulsion Test, and Rectal Sensory Testing. Clinical assessment was made by standard questionnaires. On WMC, standard criteria for colonic transit time (CTT) were used (normal CTT < 59h). The hierarchical London classification was used for HR-ARM analyses. Of 1261 patients with CC, 166 (91M; ages 22-86) received technically satisfactory WMC and HR-ARM, formed the analyzed study cohort, of whom 84 had normal CTT and 82 had prolonged CTT (> 59h). Patients with slow CTT were significantly older and had longer duration and more severe disease. Using the London classification criteria for disorders of anorectal function, we noted a high prevalence of anorectal dysfunction, regardless of CTT. Except for lower rate of anal hypertonicity in patients with slow CTT, disorders of recto-anal coordination, and rectal sensation were seen at a comparable rate in patients with CC, regardless of CTT. There is a significant overlap of anorectal disorders in patients with slow CTT. There is questionable specificity and utility of WMC and HR-ARM in assessing patients with CC. More work is needed to demonstrate the value of these studies as surrogate markers of the disease and its response to multifaceted therapy.

Effects of neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy for anorectal function in locally advanced rectal cancer patients: a study protocol for a prospective, observational, controlled, multicentre study

BackgroundNeoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NCRT) and total mesorectal excision are standard treatment regimen for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC). This sphincter-saving treatment strategy may be accompanied by a series of anorectal functional disorders. Yet, prospective studies that dynamically evaluating the respective roles of radiotherapy, chemotherapy and surgery on anorectal function are lacking.Patients/designThe study is a prospective, observational, controlled, multicentre study. After screening for eligibility and obtaining informed consent, a total of 402 LARC patients undergoing NCRT followed by surgery, or neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by surgery, or surgery only would be included in the trial. The primary outcome measure is the average resting pressure of anal sphincter. The secondary outcome measures are maximum anal sphincter contraction pressure, Wexner continence score and low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) score. Evaluations will be carried out at the following stages: baseline (T1), after radiotherapy or chemotherapy (before surgery, T2), after surgery (before closing the temporary stoma, T3), and at follow-up visits (every 3 to 6 months, T4, T5……). Follow-up for each patient will be at least 2 years.DiscussionWe expect the program to provide more information of neoadjuvant radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy on anorectal function, and to optimize the treatment strategy to reduce anorectal dysfunction for LARC patients.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05671809). Registered on 26 December 2022.

Anorectal Function and Clinical Characteristics Associated with Faecal Incontinence in Patients with Crohn's Disease.

Faecal incontinence is an important complaint reported by patients with Crohn's disease [CD] and it is associated with several disease-related mechanisms, including anorectal functional disorders. This study aimed to assess the anorectal function and clinical characteristics to identify parameters associated with faecal incontinence in CD patients. This is a cross-sectional study of 104 patients with CD, aged 18 years or older, from a referral centre between August 2019 and May 2021. Patients responded to a specific questionnaire, and underwent medical record review, proctological examination and anorectal functional assessment with anorectal manometry. Of the 104 patients, 49% were incontinent. Patients with incontinence had a lower mean resting pressure [43.5 vs 53.1 mmHg; p = 0.038], lower mean squeeze pressure [62.1 vs 94.1 mmHg; p = 0.036] and lower maximum rectal capacity [140 vs 180 mL; p < 0.001]. Faecal incontinence was also associated with disease activity [p < 0.001], loose stools [p = 0.02], perianal disease [p = 0.006], previous anoperineal surgery [p = 0.048] and number of anorectal surgeries [p = 0.036]. This is the largest reported study describing manometric findings of Crohn's disease patients with and without faecal incontinence. Our results identified an association between faecal incontinence and functional disorders, in addition to clinical features in these patients. Functional assessment with anorectal manometry may help choose the best treatment for faecal incontinence in patients with CD.

The effect of a sexual abuse history on symptoms and anorectal physiology findings in patients presenting to a colorectal pelvic floor service.

Studies report that 12%-23% of patients with functional anorectal disorders have a history of sexual abuse (SA). This article aims to assess whether there is a difference in symptom severity, quality of life or anorectal physiology findings in female patients presenting to a colorectal pelvic floor service with and without a history of sexual abuse. A retrospective analysis of all female patients attending a single tertiary pelvic floor unit for faecal incontinence or constipation between 2017 and 2019 was performed. Patients were divided into two groups depending on the presence or absence of a volunteered history of sexual abuse. Validated quality of life and symptom severity scores, along with anorectal physiology studies were analysed and compared between the two groups. There were 148 patients included in the study period and 17% reported a history of SA. There was no statistically significant difference in symptom severity, quality of life scores or anorectal physiology studies between those with and without a history of SA. In female patients seeking management for defaecatory symptoms, those who have reported a history of SA did not demonstrate any significant difference in symptom severity, quality of life or physiological measures when compared to those without a history of SA.

Artificial Intelligence and Anorectal Manometry: Automatic Detection and Differentiation of Anorectal Motility Patterns-A Proof-of-Concept Study.

Anorectal manometry (ARM) is the gold standard for the evaluation of anorectal functional disorders, prevalent in the population. Nevertheless, the accessibility to this examination is limited, and the complexity of data analysis and report is a significant drawback. This pilot study aimed to develop and validate an artificial intelligence model to automatically differentiate motility patterns of fecal incontinence (FI) from obstructed defecation (OD) using ARM data. We developed and tested multiple machine learning algorithms for the automatic interpretation of ARM data. Four models were tested: k-nearest neighbors, support vector machines, random forests, and gradient boosting (xGB). These models were trained using a stratified 5-fold strategy. Their performance was assessed after fine-tuning of each model's hyperparameters, using 90% of data for training and 10% of data for testing. A total of 827 ARM examinations were used in this study. After fine-tuning, the xGB model presented an overall accuracy (84.6% ± 2.9%), similar to that of random forests (82.7% ± 4.8%) and support vector machines (81.0% ± 8.0%) and higher that of k-nearest neighbors (74.4% ± 3.8%). The xGB models showed the highest discriminating performance between OD and FI, with an area under the curve of 0.939. The tested machine learning algorithms, particularly the xGB model, accurately differentiated between FI and OD manometric patterns. Subsequent development of these tools may optimize the access to ARM studies, which may have a significant impact on the management of patients with anorectal functional diseases.

Fecobionics Evaluation of Biofeedback Therapy in Patients With Fecal Incontinence.

INTRODUCTION:Biofeedback therapy (BFT) is a well-known treatment for functional anorectal disorders. The effect of BFT was monitored in fecal incontinence (FI) patients with the Fecobionics test and with the conventional technologies, anorectal manometry (ARM) and balloon expulsion test (BET).METHODS:Studies were performed in 12 patients before and after 8 weeks of biofeedback training. The Fecal Incontinence Severity Index (FISI) score was obtained. Anal resting and squeeze pressures were measured before the bag was distended in the rectum until urge to defecate. Pressure recordings were made during Fecobionics evacuation.RESULTS:BFT resulted in 24% reduction in FISI scores (P < 0.01). Seven patients were characterized as responders. Anal pressures, the urge-to-defecate volume, and defecatory parameters did not change significantly during BFT. For ARM-BET, the maximum anal squeeze pressure, the urge-to-defecate volume, and the expulsion time were lower after BFT compared with those before BFT (P < 0.05). For Fecobionics, the change in urge volume (r = 0.74, P < 0.05) and the change in defecation index (r = 0.79, P < 0.01) were associated with the change in FISI score. None of the ARM-BET parameters were associated with the change in FISI score. It was studied whether any pre-BFT data could predict treatment success. The Fecobionics expulsion duration and the defecation index predicted the outcome (P < 0.05). The defecation index had a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 72%. None of the ARM-BET parameters predicted the outcome (all P > 0.2).DISCUSSION:Fecobionics was used as a tool to monitor the effect of BFT and proved better than conventional technologies for monitoring and predicting the outcome in the FISI score.

Comparison of Anorectal Function as Measured with High-Resolution and High-Definition Anorectal Manometry

Introduction: Anorectal manometry (ARM) provides comprehensive assessment of pressure activity in the rectum and anal canal. Absolute pressure values might depend on the catheter used. Objective: Our aim was to compare the results obtained by different anorectal catheters in children with functional anorectal disorders. Methods: Children diagnosed with functional defecation disorders based on the Rome IV criteria were prospectively enrolled. ARM was performed in the supine position successively using 2 different probes in each patient in random order. Resting, squeeze pressures, and bear-down maneuver variables obtained by high-resolution (2-dimensional [2D]) and high-definition (3-dimensional [3D]) catheters were compared. Results: We prospectively included 100 children {mean age 7.5 [standard deviation (SD) ± 4.3] years; 62 boys}. Mean resting pressures were significantly higher when measured with the 3D than with the 2D catheter (71 [SD ± 19.4] vs. 65 [SD ± 20.1] mm Hg, respectively; p = 0.000). Intrarectal pressure measured by 3D and 2D catheters was similar (35 vs. 39 mm Hg, respectively; p = 0.761), but the percent of anal relaxation appeared to be higher for the 3D than for the 2D probe (12 vs. 5%, respectively; p = 0.002). Dyssynergic defecation (DD) was diagnosed in 41/71 patients (57.7%) using the 3D probe and in 51/71 children (71.8%) using the 2D probe (p = 0.044). Cohen’s kappa showed only fair agreement between the catheters (κ = 0.40) in diagnosis of DD. Conclusions: Our study demonstrated significantly different values of pressures obtained with different types of catheters. Normal ranges for conventional manometry cannot be applied to high-resolution systems, and results obtained by different types of manometry cannot be compared without adjustments (NCT02812823).

Better quality of life and reduced fecal incontinence in rectal cancer patients with the watch-and-wait follow-up strategy

IntroductionThe watch-and-wait (WW) strategy is an alternative to anterior resection in patients with rectal cancer (RC) that have had a complete clinical response to neoadjuvant treatment. Few reports describe the quality of life and functional anorectal disorders (FADs) in that population. AimTo analyze and compare the FADs and quality of life in patients with locally advanced adenocarcinoma of the rectum treated with neoadjuvant therapy, divided into two different strategy groups: group 1 (G1), WW; and group 2 (G2), anterior resection. Materials and methodsThirty patients (G1: n = 20 and G2: n = 10) that had finished neoadjuvant therapy at least 12 months prior were included. Mean patient age was 59.5 years (range: 41-79) and 15 of the patients were men. The FADs were evaluated through: a) clinical history, b) 21-day bowel diary, c) Jorge and Wexner fecal incontinence scale, d) anorectal manometry (ARM), and fecal incontinence quality of life scale (FIQL). ResultsBowel diary: fecal incontinence (40%) and urge to defecate (45%) in G1 vs. fecal incontinence (60%) and urge to defecate (30%) in G2, with no significant differences (p = NS). Fecal incontinence scale: fecal incontinence in G1 was significantly less severe than that in G2 (median 6.5 points vs. 13 points [p = 0.0142]). ARM: no differences between the two groups. Quality of life: significantly different between the two groups (FIQL/G1: 3.7 vs. FIQL/G2: 2.8; p < 0.03). ConclusionsThe WW follow-up strategy in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer was associated with better quality of life and reduced fecal incontinence.

Functional gastrointestinal disorders as predictors of suicidal ideation. An observational study.

Suicidal ideation (SI), a symptom of depression, is known to be associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) but is not known to be associated with other functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs). However, the source of this association is discussed. It could be related to a possible abnormal biochemical pathway implicating neurotransmitters common to both disorders like serotonin or pain and an ill-being associated with a chronic disorder of unknown etiology. The present study aims to search for the FGIDs associated with suicidal ideation. Observational study. A total of 1469 patients with FGIDs (71% of women) were included in the present study. They filled the Rome III questionnaire, Beck depression inventory, and state and trait anxiety questionnaires. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance with Bonferroni correction and logistic regression analysis. Suicidal ideation was reported by 15% of patients, associated with increased scales of depression (P < 0.001), state (P = 0.006), and trait anxiety (P = 0.021). Clinically, these patients reported a higher prevalence of IBS-diarrhea subtype (P = 0.045), fecal incontinence (P = 0.020), soiling (P = 0.016), and difficult defecation (P = 0.005), and higher perceived severity for constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal pain (P < 0.001 for all scales). This study shows that only functional bowel and functional anorectal disorders are associated with suicidal ideation. This result must be taken into account in the management of these patients.

Recommendations for the Protocol of functional examination of the anorectal zone and disorders classification: the International Anorectal Physiology Working Group consensus and Russian real-world practice

This manuscript summarizes consensus reached by the International Anorectal Physiology Working Group (IAPWG) for the performance, terminology used, and interpretation of anorectal function testing including anorectal manometry (focused on high-resolution manometry), the rectal sensory test, and the balloon expulsion test. Based on these measurements, a classification system for disorders of anorectal function is proposed. Aim to provide information about methods of diagnosis and new classification of functional anorectal disorders to a wide range of specialists general practitioners, therapists, gastroenterologists, coloproctologists all who face the manifestations of these diseases in everyday practice and determine the diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm. Current paper provides agreed statements of IAPWG Consensus and comments (in italics) of Russian experts on real-world practice, mainly on methodology of examination. These comments in no way intended to detract from the provisions agreed by the international group of experts. We hope that these comments will help to improve the quality of examination based on the systematization of local experience with the use of the methods discussed and the results obtained. Key recommendations: the International Anorectal Physiology Working Group protocol for the performance of anorectal function testing recommends a standardized sequence of maneuvers to test rectoanal reflexes, anal tone and contractility, rectoanal coordination, and rectal sensation. Major findings not seen in healthy controls defined by the classification are as follows: rectoanal areflexia, anal hypotension and hypocontractility, rectal hyposensitivity, and hypersensitivity. Minor and inconclusive findings that can be present in health and require additional information prior to diagnosis include anal hypertension and dyssynergia.

Better quality of life and reduced fecal incontinence in rectal cancer patients with the watch-and-wait follow-up strategy.

The watch-and-wait (WW) strategy is an alternative to anterior resection in patients with rectal cancer (RC) that have had a complete clinical response to neoadjuvant treatment. Few reports describe the quality of life and functional anorectal disorders (FADs) in that population. To analyze and compare the FADs and quality of life in patients with locally advanced adenocarcinoma of the rectum treated with neoadjuvant therapy, divided into two different strategy groups: group 1 (G1), WW; and group 2 (G2), anterior resection. Thirty patients (G1: n = 20 and G2: n = 10) that had finished neoadjuvant therapy at least 12 months prior were included. Mean patient age was 59.5 years (range: 41-79) and 15 of the patients were men. The FADs were evaluated through: a) clinical history, b) 21-day bowel diary, c) Jorge and Wexner fecal incontinence scale, d) anorectal manometry (ARM), and fecal incontinence quality of life scale (FIQL). Bowel diary: fecal incontinence (40%) and urge to defecate (45%) in G1 vs. fecal incontinence (60%) and urge to defecate (30%) in G2, with no significant differences (p = NS). Fecal incontinence scale: fecal incontinence in G1 was significantly less severe than that in G2 (median 6.5 points vs. 13 points [p = 0.0142]). ARM: no differences between the two groups. Quality of life: significantly different between the two groups (FIQL/G1: 3.7 vs. FIQL/G2: 2.8; p < 0.03). The WW follow-up strategy in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer was associated with better quality of life and reduced fecal incontinence.

Functional gastrointestinal disorders in inflammatory bowel disease: Time for a paradigm shift?

Recent advances in biological therapies have revolutionalised and redefined treatment targets in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). There is now a stronger emphasis on achieving the more stringent therapeutic goals of mucosal and histological healing, rather than clinical remission alone. Consequently, the treatment of refractory “functional” gastrointestinal symptoms, often attributed as the aftermath of previous inflammation, has recently become more prominent in quiescent disease. With further expected advances in anti-inflammatory treatments on the horizon, the burden of such symptoms in quiescent disease, which have been relatively neglected, is set to become an even bigger problem. In this article, we highlight the current state of research and understanding in this field, including recent developments and clinical practice guidelines on the diagnosis and management of functional gastrointestinal symptoms, such as irritable bowel syndrome and functional anorectal and pelvic floor disorders, in patients with quiescent IBD. These disorders are not only highly prevalent in these patients, they are often misdiagnosed, and are difficult to treat, with very few evidence-based therapies. Moreover, they are associated with substantial impairment in quality-of-life, considerable morbidity, and psychological distress. There is therefore an urgent need for a change in emphasis towards earlier recognition, positive diagnosis, and targeted treatment for patients with ongoing functional gastrointestinal symptoms in the absence of active IBD. This article also highlights the need for further research to develop much needed evidence-based therapies.

Update and review of diagnosing functional anorectal disorders – standardized protocol for high-resolution anorectal manometry and the London classification

Complex anorectal examination including adetailed medical history, physical proctological examination and evaluation of the sensorimotor and structural function of the anorectum is essential for the diagnosis and therapeutic management of functional anorectal dysfunction. The aim of the work is to provide an overview of diagnosing functional anorectal disorders according to the new update and consensus statement of the International Anorectal Physiology Working Group (IAPWG) with afocus on indications, astandardized examination protocol and introduction of the new London classification of anorectal dysfunction. The indications are: fecal incontinence, defecation disorders, functional pelvic (anorectal) pain, evaluation before an anorectal intervention and before planned delivery to assess the function of apreviously traumatized anal sphincter. Standardization of the diagnosis and the evaluated data are the basis for multidisciplinary cooperation and determination of atreatment plan for each patient individually.

The international anorectal physiology working group (IAPWG) recommendations: Standardized testing protocol and the London classification for disorders of anorectal function.

BackgroundThis manuscript summarizes consensus reached by the International Anorectal Physiology Working Group (IAPWG) for the performance, terminology used, and interpretation of anorectal function testing including anorectal manometry (focused on high‐resolution manometry), the rectal sensory test, and the balloon expulsion test. Based on these measurements, a classification system for disorders of anorectal function is proposed.MethodsTwenty‐nine working group members (clinicians/academics in the field of gastroenterology, coloproctology, and gastrointestinal physiology) were invited to six face‐to‐face and three remote meetings to derive consensus between 2014 and 2018.Key recommendationsThe IAPWG protocol for the performance of anorectal function testing recommends a standardized sequence of maneuvers to test rectoanal reflexes, anal tone and contractility, rectoanal coordination, and rectal sensation. Major findings not seen in healthy controls defined by the classification are as follows: rectoanal areflexia, anal hypotension and hypocontractility, rectal hyposensitivity, and hypersensitivity. Minor and inconclusive findings that can be present in health and require additional information prior to diagnosis include anal hypertension and dyssynergia.Conclusions and InferencesThis framework introduces the IAPWG protocol and the London classification for disorders of anorectal function based on objective physiological measurement. The use of a common language to describe results of diagnostic tests, standard operating procedures, and a consensus classification system is designed to bring much‐needed standardization to these techniques.

Three-dimensional high-resolution anorectal manometry can predict response to biofeedback therapy in defecation disorders.

Biofeedback therapy (BT) is a simple and effective technique for managing outlet constipation and fecal incontinence. Several clinical factors are known to predict BT response, but a 50% failure rate persists. Better selection of BT responsive patients is required. We aimed to determine whether the defecation disorder type per high-resolution manometry (HRM) was predictive of BT response. We analyzed clinical, manometric, and ultrasound endoscopic data from patients who underwent BT in our department between January 2015 and January 2016. Patients were classified into four groups per the following defecation disorder classification criteria: rectal pressure > 40mmHg and anal paradoxical contraction (type I); rectal pressure < 40mmHg and anal paradoxical contraction (type II); rectal pressure > 40mmHg and incomplete anal relaxation (type III); and rectal pressure < 40mmHg and incomplete anal relaxation (type IV). An experienced single operator conducted ten weekly 20-min sessions. Efficacy was evaluated with the visual analog scale. Of 92 patients, 47 (50.5%) responded to BT. Type IV and type II defecation disorders were predictive of success (p = 0.03) (OR = 5.03 [1.02; 24.92]) and failure (p = 0.05) (OR = 0.41 [0.17; 0.99]), respectively. The KESS score severity before BT (p = 0.03) (OR = 0.9 [0.81; 0.99]) was also predictive of failure. The manometry types identified according to the defecation disorder classification criteria were predictive of BT response. Our data confirm the role of three-dimensional HRM in the therapeutic management of anorectal functional disorders.

Anal sphincter botulinum toxin injection in children with functional anorectal and colonic disorders: A large institutional study and review of the literature focusing on complications

Background and aimBotulinum toxin (botox) is a commonly used treatment for functional anorectal and colonic disorders. Although generally regarded as safe, complications associated with botox injection into the anal sphincters in children with severe defecation disorders are not well described. We aimed to review our institutional experience and the existing literature to better understand the safety of this practice. MethodsWe performed a retrospective review of pediatric patients undergoing botox administration into the anal sphincter for treatment of a variety of defecation disorders between 2014 and 2018. Additionally, we performed a review of all published literature reporting complications from botox injection in this patient population. Results881 patients ranging from 5 weeks to 19.7 years underwent a total of 1332 botox injections including our institution (332 patients/526 injections) and the reviewed series (549 patients/806 injections). Overall, complications were seen after 9 (0.7%) injections and included urinary incontinence (n = 5), pelvic muscle paresis (n = 2), perianal abscess (n = 1), pruritis ani (n = 1), and rectal prolapse (n = 1). Patient age, weight, and diagnosis were not associated with an increased rate of complication in our institutional experience. All complications were self-limited and did not require intervention. There were no episodes of systemic botulinum toxicity. ConclusionBotox injection into the anal sphincters is accepted practice in children with Hirschsprung disease, severe functional constipation, and internal anal sphincter achalasia and appears to be safe from this review. The precise dosing and age at which complications are more likely to arise could not be ascertained and require further study. Level of evidenceIV Type of studyRetrospective cohort study.

Quality of life in 1870 patients with constipation and/or fecal incontinence: Constipation should not be underestimated

Quality of life is increasingly seen as important, but remains difficult to assess in patients with functional anorectal complaints. We aimed to quantify quality of life and to analyse the symptomatic descriptors associated with a poor outcome in patients with faecal incontinence (FI) and/or constipation. The characteristics of the patients, data from self-administered questionnaires and from physical examinations were evaluated prospectively for all cases of functional anorectal disease over a period of thirteen years. Functional anorectal disease included faecal incontinence (FI) and/or constipation. Patients with scores in the lowest quartile of the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI) were considered to have suffered severe alterations to their quality of life, and were compared with the other patients. In total, 1870 patients with functional anorectal disease were included (470 with a severely altered quality of life (GIQLI < 70)). Constipation predominated (1212/1870; 65.1%) and severe FI was frequent (761/1870; 40.9%). Severely altered quality of life was significantly associated with constipation (P = 0.0001), urinary urgency and incontinence (P = 0.0001), depression (P = 0.001), diabetes (P = 0.0224), severe FI (P = 0.0001), neurological disease (P = 0.0138) and liquid stools (P = 0.0002) in multivariate analysis. Several treatable factors are associated to an impaired quality of life in patients with functional anorectal disorders. Intervention studies are mandatory (stool consistency and frequency).

Three-dimensional high-resolution anorectal manometry in functional anorectal disorders: results from a large observational cohort study.

The aim of the study was to describe the results of 3D high-resolution anorectal manometry (3DHRAM) in a large cohort of patients with functional anorectal disorders. In this single-center retrospective study, all consecutive patients referred for investigation of fecal incontinence (FI) or dyssynergic defecation (DD) underwent 3DHRAM. The parameters analyzed were usual manometric data, repartition of dyssynergic patterns, and the prevalence of a new "muscular subtype classification" underlying dyssynergia, anal sphincter defects, and pelvic floor disorders. Final analyses were performed in 1477 patients with a mean age 54 ± 16years; 825 patients suffered from DD, and 652 patients suffered from FI. Among these patients, 86% met the diagnostic criteria for dyssynergia. Type II dyssynergia was the most frequently observed (56%) in women and men suffering from FI and in women with DD. Type I was the most frequently observed in men with DD (49%). Regarding the muscle type subgroups, combined puborectalis muscle involvement with an external anal sphincter profile was the most frequently observed. The global prevalence of rectal intussusception and excessive perineal descent were 12% and 21%, respectively. Type III dyssynergia was more frequently associated with pelvic floor disorders than were other types of dyssynergia (p < 0.001). This large cohort study provides reference values for 3DHRAM in patients with functional anorectal disorders. Further studies are necessary to assess the prevalence of pelvic floor disorders in healthy volunteers and to develop new scores and classifications including all of these new parameters.