How to establish a successful bowel management programme in children: a tertiary paediatric centre experience

Background Bowel management is a term used to describe a medical approach to the management of faecal incontinence. Aims To present the outcomes of an individualised bowel management programme developed by a tertiary paediatric centre and evaluate contributory factors for successful bowel management in children. Methods A retrospective review of children attending a bowel management clinic in a tertiary centre in Dublin, Ireland, over 5 years (2010–2015). The main outcome measure was the ability to achieve a regular bowel pattern and remain socially clean. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to determine the factors contributing to successful bowel management. Results One hundred ninety-two children attended the clinic over 5 years. The median age at commencement of washouts was 7 years. Underlying diagnosis was spina bifida in 50%, imperforate anus in 17.7%, Hirschsprung’s disease in 14.6%, idiopathic constipation in 7.8%, and other conditions in 9.9% of patients. Children with spina bifida and Hirschsprung’s disease preferred Peristeen washouts, while those with imperforate anus and idiopathic constipation preferred Willis washouts ( p < 0.001). Our programme was successful in 93.7% of cases. Regression analysis showed that the underlying condition ( p < 0.001), washout medication ( p = 0.016), and individuals administering washouts ( p < 0.001) contributed to a successful bowel management programme. Conclusion Treatment protocols should be individualised based on the underlying condition and outcomes. Decision-making must be cognisant of the physical, social, psychological, and developmental needs of the child and family. A partnership approach is advocated, which includes child and parent/carer preferences allowing them to make an informed decision.