Long-term effect of biofeedback training on functional nonretentive fecal incontinence in children: a randomized controlled study

Abdelrahman, Emad M.; Abdel Ghafar, Mohamed A.; Selim, Ali O.; Ali, Olfat I.; Sakr, Ahmed E.; Kharoub, Mohamed S.

doi:10.4103/ejs.ejs_98_22

Long-term effect of biofeedback training on functional nonretentive fecal incontinence in children: a randomized controlled study

Authors

Abstract

Background
Functional nonretentive fecal incontinence (FNRFI) is an extremely embarrassing and psychologically frustrating shameful problem with bad impact on children. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term effect of biofeedback training in the treatment of FNRFI in children and its impact on the quality of life (QoL).
Patients and methods
This prospective randomized controlled study included 100 children with FNRFI, who were randomly assigned into two groups. Group A was treated using Kegel exercises and dietetic regulation, while group B was treated by biofeedback training. Follow-up was planned for 24 months for manometric findings, incontinence score, frequency of incontinence episodes, and the QoL.
Results
There was a statistically significant decrease in incontinence episodes and scores in both groups when compared with the initial record at 3, 12, and 24 months with better outcome in group B. There was statistically significant improvement in QoL domains in group B when compared with group A (<0.001).
Conclusion
Biofeedback is an effective method for the treatment of FNRFI and its effect is maintained over time with satisfactory improvement of QoL. Level of evidence: Level I. Type of study: Treatment study.

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