Alterations in Anorectal Manometry Parameters following Treatment of Functional Chronic Constipation in Children

Background and

Anorectal manometry is a suitable diagnostic method in children with chronic constipation and could provide useful information on the causes of constipation. This study was done to evaluate the therapeutic response of standard treatment and improve the diagnostic method via assessment of manometric parameters before and after the standard treatment.

In a cross-sectional study، anorectal manometry was performed in 48 patients including 31 male (with the mean age of 6. 8±1. 08 years) with chronic constipation. The manometry parameters were compared before and after six months therapeutic period.

Forty eight children with chronic constipation underwent anorectal manometric testing. Basal anal pressure decreased in standard treatment (P<0. 004). According to clinical symptoms، acceptable therapeutic response was achieved in 27 (75%) patients. Severe changes in sphincter relaxation were seen at one second after rectal dilatation phase. But no significant differences were seen in Amplitude and duration of relaxation in volumes higher than 30cc.

Standard treatment had no long term effect on Duration of Relaxation، however، it could play a role in improving the status of patient by influencing Amplitude of relaxation. More changes were seen at one second after rectal dilatation phase، hence، the length of manometry procedure can be shortened.