Age-specific reference scores for the PISQ-12 on female sexual functioning in the Netherlands: a retrospective population-based survey.

BACKGROUND: Female sexual dysfunction is common in the general population, with age emerging as a significant determinant of sexual activity and functioning. AIM: To establish age-specific reference scores for the Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ-12) in the general Dutch female population. METHODS: A retrospective, cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted in the Netherlands. The study population comprised 2518 Dutch-speaking women aged ≥18 years, representing a cross section of the general Dutch population. The PISQ-12 was used to assess sexual functioning in heterosexual women. The Groningen Defecation and Fecal Continence questionnaire was utilized to demonstrate demographic factors. OUTCOMES: We established age-specific reference scores for the PISQ-12 in the general Dutch population. RESULTS: Of the 2518 women, 1592 (63.2%) were sexually active and 926 (36.8%) were not. Further analysis focused on the sexually active group: we found a decrease in mean total PISQ scores, ranging from 38.34 among 18- to 34-year-olds to 36.98 among ≥65-year-olds. Older women scored lower in the behavior domain, specifically pertaining to sexual desire (P < .001) and sexual excitement (P < .001). They also had lower scores in the partner-related domain regarding partner problems of erection (P < .001) and orgasm perception (P < .001). With increasing age, negative emotional reaction scores were higher (P < .001). In the physical domain, we observed significantly different scores for pain during sexual intercourse (P < .001) and restrictions in sexual activity due to fear of urinary leakage (P < .001), with the lowest scores in the youngest group. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: These age-specific references scores of the PISQ-12 provide an overview of sexual functioning of a general population, which enables caregivers to assess and interpret patients' individual scores more accurately. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS: We included only sexually active women in our subanalyses, potentially introducing selection bias for older women with better physical conditions. The study's strength lies in its extensive sample size, representing a cross section of the general Dutch population. Furthermore, the self-administered questionnaire approach helped minimize embarrassment and obtain realistic responses. CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrated age-specific PISQ-12 reference scores and highlighted associations between aging and diminishing scores of sexual desire, sexual excitement, erection problems, and orgasm perception, while women aged 18 to 34 years reported the lowest scores for pain during intercourse and limited sexual activity due to fear of urinary leakage.

The Severity of Fecal Problems Is Negatively Associated With Quality of Life in a Dutch Population Without Bowel Function Comorbidities.

BACKGROUND: Constipation and fecal incontinence negatively influence quality of life. The association between the severity of fecal problems and quality of life has not been investigated in the general population without bowel function comorbidities. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association between the severity of constipation and fecal incontinence and quality of life in patients without comorbidities influencing bowel function. DESIGN: A population-based, cross-sectional study. SETTINGS: The study involved 3668 Dutch study participants. PATIENTS: A survey company conducted a population-wide study of the general Dutch population. Altogether, 5000 Dutch citizens completed the Groningen Defecation and Fecal Continence and Short Form-36 questionnaires. The data on 3668 respondents without comorbidities that could influence bowel function were included for analysis (study group). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The severity of constipation (Agachan score) and fecal incontinence (Wexner score) in relation to the quality-of-life scores. RESULTS: In the study group (n = 3668), 487 had constipation (13.3%), 116 had fecal incontinence (3.2%), and 64 had 2 coexisting fecal problems (1.7%). In the multivariable analysis, all quality-of-life domains were negatively associated with the severity of constipation and fecal incontinence. The associations between the severity of constipation and quality of life were stronger (highest: ß = -2.413; 95% CI, -2.681 to -2.145; p < 0.001) than those of fecal incontinence (highest: ß = -1.280; 95% CI, -1.681 to -.880; p < 0.001). We also found that a longer duration of bowel complaints coincided with higher severity scores, especially for constipation. Respondents mostly rated their defecation health as positive, regardless of the severity of their fecal problems. LIMITATIONS: Cross-sectional design. CONCLUSIONS: The severity of constipation and fecal incontinence is significantly associated with reduced quality of life, with the severity of constipation having stronger associations than fecal incontinence. Given respondents' unawareness of their fecal problems and the progressive character, timely intervention is advocated. See Video Abstract . LA GRAVEDAD DE LOS PROBLEMAS FECALES SE ASOCIA NEGATIVAMENTE CON LA CALIDAD DE VIDA EN UNA POBLACIN HOLANDESA SIN COMORBILIDADES DE LA FUNCIN INTESTINAL: ANTECEDENTES:El estreñimiento y la incontinencia fecal influyen negativamente en la calidad de vida. La asociación entre la gravedad de los problemas fecales y la calidad de vida no se ha investigado en la población general sin comorbilidades de la función intestinal.OBJETIVO:Investigar la asociación entre la gravedad del estreñimiento y la incontinencia fecal y la calidad de vida en la población holandesa general sin comorbilidades que influyan en la función intestinal.DISEÑO:Estudio transversal de base poblacional.ENTORNO CLINICO:El estudio involucró a 3668 participantes holandeses.PACIENTES:Una empresa de encuestas realizó un estudio poblacional de la población holandesa en general. En total, 5.000 ciudadanos holandeses completaron los cuestionarios Groningen Defecation and Fecal Continence y Short-Form 36. Se incluyeron para el análisis los datos de 3668 encuestados sin comorbilidades que pudieran influir en la función intestinal (grupo de estudio).PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:La gravedad del estreñimiento (puntuación de Agachan) y la incontinencia fecal (puntuación de Wexner) en relación con las puntuaciones de calidad de vida.RESULTADOS:En el grupo de estudio (n = 3668), 487 tenían estreñimiento (13,3%), 116 tenían incontinencia fecal (3,2%) y 64 tenían 2 problemas fecales coexistentes (1,7%). En el análisis multivariable, todos los dominios de calidad de vida se asociaron negativamente con la gravedad del estreñimiento y la incontinencia fecal. Las asociaciones entre la gravedad del estreñimiento y la calidad de vida fueron más fuertes (más alta: ß = -2,413; IC del 95 %, -2,681 a -2,145; p < 0,001) que las de la incontinencia fecal (más alta: ß = -1,280; 95 IC %: -1,681 a -0,880; p < 0,001). También encontramos que una mayor duración de las molestias intestinales coincidió con puntuaciones de gravedad más altas, especialmente para el estreñimiento. La mayoría de los encuestados calificaron su salud en la defecación como positiva, independientemente de la gravedad de sus problemas fecales.LIMITACIONES:Diseño transversal.CONCLUSIONES:La gravedad del estreñimiento y la incontinencia fecal se asocia significativamente con una calidad de vida reducida; la gravedad del estreñimiento tiene asociaciones más fuertes que la incontinencia fecal. Dado el desconocimiento de los encuestados sobre sus problemas fecales y el carácter progresivo, se recomienda una intervención oportuna. (Traducción- Dr. Francisco M. Abarca-Rendon ).

The Effect of a Temporary Stoma on Long-term Functional Outcomes Following Surgery for Rectal Cancer.

BACKGROUND: Patients with rectal cancer may undergo surgical resection with or without a temporary stoma. OBJECTIVE: This study primarily aimed to compare long-term functional outcomes between patients with and without a temporary stoma after surgery for rectal cancer. The secondary aim was to investigate the effect of time to stoma reversal on functional outcomes. DESIGN: This was a multicenter, cross-sectional study. SETTINGS: This study was conducted at 7 Dutch hospitals. PATIENTS: Included were patients who had undergone rectal cancer surgery (2009-2015). Excluded were deceased patients, who were deceased, had a permanent stoma, or had intellectual disability. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Functional outcomes were measured using the Rome IV criteria for constipation and fecal incontinence and the low anterior resection syndrome score. RESULTS: Of 656 patients, 32% received a temporary ileostomy and 20% a temporary colostomy (86% response). Follow-up was at 56 (interquartile range, 38.5-79) months. Patients who had a temporary ileostomy experienced less constipation, more fecal incontinence, and more major low anterior resection syndrome than those without a temporary stoma. Patients who had a temporary colostomy experienced more major low anterior resection syndrome than those without a temporary stoma. A temporary ileostomy or colostomy was not associated with constipation or fecal incontinence after correction for confounding factors (eg, anastomotic height, anastomotic leakage, radiotherapy). Time to stoma reversal was not associated with constipation, fecal incontinence, or major low anterior resection syndrome. LIMITATIONS: Cross-sectional design. CONCLUSIONS: Although patients with a temporary ileostomy or colostomy have worse functional outcomes in the long term, it seems that the reason for creating a temporary stoma, rather than the stoma itself, underlies this phenomenon. Time to reversal of a temporary stoma does not influence functional outcomes. See Video Abstract . EL EFECTO DEL ESTOMA TEMPORAL SOBRE LOS RESULTADOS FUNCIONALES A LARGO PLAZO DESPUS DE LA CIRUGA POR CNCER DE RECTO: ANTECEDENTES:Los pacientes con cáncer de recto pueden someterse a resección quirúrgica con o sin un estoma temporal.OBJETIVO:El objetivo principal de este estudio fue comparar los resultados funcionales a largo plazo entre pacientes con y sin estoma temporal después de cirugía por cáncer de recto. El objetivo secundario fue investigar el efecto del tiempo transcurrido hasta la reversión del estoma sobre los resultados funcionales.DISEÑO:Este fue un estudio transversal multicéntrico.ESCENARIO:Este estudio se llevó a cabo en siete hospitales holandeses.PACIENTES:Se incluyeron pacientes sometidos a cirugía de cáncer de recto (2009-2015). Se excluyeron pacientes fallecidos, pacientes con estoma permanente o discapacidad intelectual.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Los resultados funcionales se midieron utilizando los criterios de Roma IV para el estreñimiento y la incontinencia fecal y la puntuación del síndrome de resección anterior baja (LARS).RESULTADOS:De 656 pacientes, el 32% recibió una ileostomía temporal y el 20% una colostomía temporal (respuesta del 86%). El seguimiento fue de 56.0 (RIQ 38.5-79.0) meses. Los pacientes a los que se les realizó una ileostomía temporal experimentaron menos estreñimiento, más incontinencia fecal y más LARS mayor que los pacientes sin un estoma temporal. Los pacientes que tuvieron una colostomía temporal experimentaron más LARS mayor que los pacientes sin un estoma temporal. Una ileostomía o colostomía temporal no se asoció con estreñimiento o incontinencia fecal después de la corrección de factores de confusión (p. ej., altura anastomótica, fuga anastomótica, radioterapia). El tiempo hasta la reversión del estoma no se asoció con estreñimiento, incontinencia fecal o LARS mayor.LIMITACIONES:El presente estudio está limitado por su diseño transversal.CONCLUSIONES:Aunque los pacientes con una ileostomía o colostomía temporal tienen peores resultados funcionales a largo plazo, parece que la razón para crear un estoma temporal, más que el estoma en sí, se asocia a este fenómeno. El tiempo hasta la reversión de un estoma temporal no influye en los resultados funcionales. (Traducción-Dr. Jorge Silva Velazco ).

Relation between the internal anal sphincter and defecation disorders in patients with anorectal malformations.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate associations between the rectoanal inhibitory reflex (RAIR), type of congenital anorectal malformations (ARMs), type of operation that patients with ARM had undergone, and objectively measured fecal incontinence and defecation problems. METHODS: We retrospectively included 69 pediatric patients with ARM. All underwent anorectal function tests at the University Medical Center of Groningen during the last 10 years. We assessed anorectal physiology using the Rome IV criteria and anorectal function tests. RESULTS: We found the reflex in 67% of patients and all types of ARMs. All patients who had not been operated on, and those who had undergone less extensive surgery possessed the reflex. In contrast, patients who underwent posterior sagittal anorectoplasty, 44% possessed it. We found no difference between mean rectal volumes in patients with and without the reflex (251 mL vs. 325 mL, respectively, p = 0.266). We found that over time, patients without the reflex seemed to develop significantly higher rectal volumes than patients who had it. We did not find a significant difference between the reflex and fecal incontinence; however, it seems that the absence of the reflex, resting anal sphincter pressure, and fecal incontinence are related. CONCLUSION: The RAIR seems present in patients with ARM irrespective of their malformation type. Corrective surgery, however, may impair this reflex. Seemingly, its absence results in constipation with enlarged rectal volumes and fecal incontinence. Every effort should be made to preserve this reflex during surgery and to use extensive surgical procedures as sparingly as possible.

Association of Constipation with Modes of Delivery: A Retrospective Questionnaire-based Study.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: Pelvic floor damage can contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction, including constipation. Most studies focus on constipation during pregnancy, whereas information regarding the mode of delivery in relation to constipation is limited. We hypothesise that women with a history of vaginal delivery report constipation more often than women with a history of caesarean section. METHODS: This was a retrospective cross-sectional multicentre study conducted in the Netherlands. All included patients (n = 2,643) completed the Groningen Defecation and Fecal Continence questionnaire to assess bowel problems of the last 6 months. Parametric tests, Chi-squared, univariable and multivariable regression analyses were performed. RESULTS: Among 2,643 parous women, 2,248 delivered vaginally (85.1%) and 395 (14.9%) by caesarean section. Altogether, 649 women (24.6%) suffered from constipation. Women in the vaginal delivery group were constipated more often than women in the caesarean section group (25.5% versus 19.0%, p = 0.005). For women who had delivered vaginally, multivariable regression analysis showed an odds ratio for constipation of 1.47 (95% confidence interval, 1.109-1.938, p = 0.007). The odds ratio for constipation in women with a spontaneous perineal tear was 1.4 times higher than in women with an intact perineum (p = 0.030). Furthermore, the vaginal delivery group reported difficulties regarding bowel emptying (p = 0.048), straining (p = 0.027), incomplete defecation (p = 0.043), not able to defecate daily (p = 0.018), manually assisted defecation (p = 0.015) and had higher Renzi scores (p = 0.043) more often. CONCLUSIONS: Women in the vaginal delivery group have higher prevalences and odds ratios for constipation. Furthermore, a perineal tear during vaginal delivery increases the odds ratio for constipation.

Novel insights into physiological mechanisms underlying fecal continence.

The machinery maintaining fecal continence prevents involuntary loss of stool and is based on the synchronized interplay of multiple voluntary and involuntary mechanisms, dependent on cooperation between motor responses of the musculature of the colon, pelvic floor, and anorectum, and sensory and motor neural pathways. Knowledge of the physiology of fecal continence is key toward understanding the pathophysiology of fecal incontinence. The idea that involuntary contraction of the internal anal sphincter is the primary mechanism of continence and that the external anal sphincter supports continence only by voluntary contraction is outdated. Other mechanisms have come to the forefront, and they have significantly changed viewpoints on the mechanisms of continence and incontinence. For instance, involuntary contractions of the external anal sphincter, the puborectal muscle, and the sphincter of O'Beirne have been proven to play a role in fecal continence. Also, retrograde propagating cyclic motor patterns in the sigmoid and rectum promote retrograde transit to prevent the continuous flow of content into the anal canal. With this review, we aim to give an overview of primary and secondary mechanisms controlling fecal continence and evaluate the strength of evidence.

Diagnosing Mild Forms of Anorectal Malformation With Anorectal Manometry: A Prospective Study.

INTRODUCTION: Rectoperineal congenital anorectal malformations (CARMs) are diagnosed by examining the perineum, combined with electric stimulation (ES) of the anal sphincter performed under anesthesia. This procedure may be troublesome because it is based on the observed contractibility of the sphincter. We aimed to add 3-dimensional high-resolution anorectal manometry (3D-HRAM) to the procedure and to assess its value for diagnosing rectoperineal forms of CARM. METHODS: We prospectively included 66 patients younger than 24 months who presented with constipation and were suspected of CARM, idiopathic constipation, or Hirschsprung disease. The patients were assessed between 2015 and 2021 at University Medical Center Groningen, the Netherlands. All patients underwent 3D-HRAM, followed by the standard diagnostic procedure for either CARM or Hirschsprung disease. RESULTS: Of the 51 patients who underwent both 3D-HRAM and ES, we observed that patients with rectoperineal CARM revealed a pressure gap along the anterior part of the anal sphincter. Based on this observation, we diagnosed 35 patients with CARM. Subsequently, all 35 diagnoses were confirmed with ES. Sixteen patients were diagnosed as not having CARM, 100% of whom were in agreement with the gold standard-ES. Both the specificity and sensitivity of 3D-HRAM for diagnosing rectoperineal CARM were 100%. DISCUSSION: We consider 3D-HRAM a reliable tool for diagnosing and excluding rectoperineal CARM. Using this method in patients suspected of CARM might keep infants from undergoing unnecessary interventions requiring anesthetics, such as ES. By providing objective insight into the functional capabilities of the anal sphincter, anorectal manometry adds to the diagnosis.

Anastomotic Height Is a Valuable Indicator of Long-term Bowel Function Following Surgery for Rectal Cancer.

BACKGROUND: The exact relation between anastomotic height after rectal cancer surgery and postoperative bowel function problems has not been investigated in the long term, resulting in ineffective treatment. OBJECTIVE: The goal of this study was to determine the effect of anastomotic height on long-term bowel function and generic quality of life. DESIGN: This was a multicenter, cross-sectional study. SETTINGS: Seven hospitals in the north of the Netherlands participated. PATIENTS: All patients who underwent rectal cancer surgery between 2009 and 2015 in participating hospitals received the validated Defecation and Fecal Continence and Short-Form 36 questionnaires. Deceased patients, patients with a permanent stoma or an anastomosis >15 cm from the anal verge, patients with intellectual disability, and patients living abroad were excluded. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Primary outcomes were constipation (Rome IV), fecal incontinence (Rome IV), and major low anterior resection syndrome. Secondary outcomes were the generic quality of life scores. RESULTS: The study population ( n = 630) had a median follow-up of 58.0 months. In multivariable analysis, constipation (OR = 1.08; 95% CI, 1.02-1.15; p = 0.011), fecal incontinence (OR = 0.91; 95% CI, 0.84-0.97; p = 0.006), and major low anterior resection syndrome (OR = 0.93; 95% CI, 0.87-0.99; p = 0.027), were significantly associated with anastomotic height. The curves illustrating the probability of constipation and fecal incontinence crossed at an anastomotic height of 7 cm, with 95% CIs overlapping between 4.5 and 9.5 cm. There was no relation between quality-of-life scores and anastomotic height. LIMITATIONS: The study is limited by its cross-sectional design. CONCLUSIONS: This study might serve as a guide for the clinician to effectively screen and treat fecal incontinence and constipation during patient follow-up after rectal cancer surgery. More attention should be paid to fecal incontinence in patients with an anastomosis below 4.5 cm and toward constipation in patients with an anastomosis above 9.5 cm. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B858 . LA ALTURA ANASTOMTICA ES UN INDICADOR VALIOSO DE LA FUNCIN INTESTINAL A LARGO PLAZO DESPUS DE LA CIRUGA PARA EL CNCER DE RECTO: ANTECEDENTES:La relación exacta entre la altura anastomótica después de la cirugía de cáncer de recto y los problemas posoperatorios de la función intestinal no se ha investigado a largo plazo, lo que causa un tratamiento ineficaz.OBJETIVO:Determinar el efecto de la altura anastomótica sobre la función intestinal a largo plazo y la calidad de vida genérica.DISEÑO:Estudio multicéntrico transversal.DISEÑO DEL ESTUDIO:Participaron siete hospitales holandeses en el norte de los Países Bajos.PACIENTES:Todos los pacientes que se sometieron a cirugía de cáncer de recto entre 2009 y 2015 en los hospitales participantes recibieron los cuestionarios validados de Defecación y Continencia Fecal y Short-Form 36. Se excluyeron pacientes fallecidos, pacientes con estoma permanente o anastomosis > 15 cm del borde anal, discapacidad intelectual o residentes en el extranjero.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Los resultados primarios fueron estreñimiento (Roma IV), incontinencia fecal (Roma IV) y síndrome de resección anterior baja mayor. Los resultados secundarios fueron las puntuaciones genéricas de calidad de vida.RESULTADOS:La población de estudio (N = 630) tuvo una mediana de seguimiento de 58.0 meses. En el análisis multivariable el estreñimiento (OR = 1,08, IC del 95%, 1,02-1,15, p = 0,011), incontinencia fecal (OR = 0,91, IC del 95%, 0,84-0,97, p = 0,006) y síndrome de resección anterior baja mayor (OR = 0,93, IC del 95%, 0,87-0,99, p = 0,027) se asociaron significativamente con la altura anastomótica. Las curvas que ilustran la probabilidad de estreñimiento e incontinencia fecal se cruzaron a una altura anastomótica de 7 cm, con IC del 95% superpuestos entre 4,5 y 9,5 cm. No hubo relación entre las puntuaciones de calidad de vida y la altura anastomótica.LIMITACIONES:El estudio está limitado por su diseño transversal.CONCLUSIONES:Este estudio podría servir como una guía para que el médico evalúe y trate eficazmente la incontinencia fecal y el estreñimiento durante el seguimiento de los pacientes después de la cirugía de cáncer de recto. Se debe prestar más atención a la incontinencia fecal en pacientes con anastomosis por debajo de 4,5 cm y al estreñimiento en pacientes con anastomosis por encima de 9,5 cm. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B858 . (Traducción-Dr. Yazmin Berrones-Medina ).

The Prevalence of Bowel and Bladder Function During Early Childhood: A Population-Based Study.

OBJECTIVES: Our primary aim was to determine bowel and bladder function in children aged 1 month to 7 years in the general Dutch population. Second, we aimed to identify demographic factors associated with the presence of bowel and bladder dysfunction, and their coexistence. METHODS: For this cross-sectional, population-based study, parents/caregivers of children aged from 1 month to 7 years were asked to complete the Early Pediatric Groningen Defecation and Fecal Continence questionnaire. Different parameters of bowel and bladder function were assessed using validated scoring systems such as the Rome IV criteria. RESULTS: The mean age of the study population (N = 791) was 3.9 ± 2.2 years. The mean age at which parents/caregivers considered their child fully toilet-trained was 5.1 ± 1.5 years. Prevalence of fecal incontinence among toilet-trained children was 12%. Overall prevalence of constipation was 14%, with a constant probability and severity at all ages. We found significant associations between fecal incontinence and constipation [odds ratio (OR) = 3.88, 95% CI: 2.06-7.30], fecal incontinence and urinary incontinence (OR = 5.26, 95% CI: 2.78-9.98), and constipation and urinary incontinence (OR = 2.06, 95% CI: 1.24-3.42). CONCLUSIONS: Even though most children are fully toilet-trained at 5 years, fecal incontinence is common. Constipation appears to be common in infants, toddlers, and older children. Fecal incontinence and constipation frequently coexist and are often accompanied by urinary incontinence. Increased awareness of bowel and bladder dysfunction in infants, toddlers, and young children is required to prevent these problems from continuing at older ages.

Development and validation of the Early Pediatric Groningen Defecation and Fecal Continence questionnaire.

There are no compatible tools that assess bowel function in young children, older children, and adults. This precludes clinical follow-up and longitudinal scientific research. Our aim was therefore to develop and validate a bowel function questionnaire equivalent to the pediatric (8-17 years) and adult (≥ 18 years) Groningen Defecation and Fecal Continence (DeFeC) questionnaires for children from the age of 1 month to 7 years. We developed, validated, and translated the Early Pediatric Groningen DeFeC (EP-DeFeC) questionnaire according to the Consensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN). The EP-DeFeC incorporates different validated bowel function scoring systems, including the Rome IV criteria that are also included in the pediatric and adult DeFeC. We assessed feasibility and reproducibility by a test-retest survey. The study population (N = 100) consisted of the parents/caregivers of children whose median age was 4.0 (IQR 2.0-5.0) years. The mean interval between testing and retesting was 2.7 ± 1.1 months. None of the respondents commented on ambiguities regarding the questions. The overall median time taken to complete the EP-DeFeC was 8.7 min (IQR 6.8-11.8). The overall observed agreement was 78.9% with an overall kappa coefficient of 0.51, indicating moderate agreement. CONCLUSION: The EP-DeFeC is a feasible, reproducible, and validated questionnaire for assessing bowel function in children from the age of 1 month to 7 years. If used in combination with its pediatric (8-17 years) and adult (≥ 18 years) equivalents, this questionnaire enables longitudinal follow-up of bowel function from infancy to adulthood. WHAT IS KNOWN: • Bowel function problems are common among young children. • Unfortunately, there are no compatible tools that assess bowel function in young children, older children, and adults, which precludes clinical follow-up and longitudinal scientific research. WHAT IS NEW: • The Early Pediatric Groningen Defecation and Fecal Continence (EP-DeFeC) questionnaire is validated to assess bowel function in children from the age of 1 month to 7 years. • If used together with its pediatric and adult equivalents, longitudinal follow-up of bowel function from infancy to adulthood becomes possible.

Long-term Bowel Dysfunction and Decline in Quality of Life Following Surgery for Colon Cancer: Call for Personalized Screening and Treatment.

BACKGROUND: Differences in long-term outcomes regarding types of colon resections are inconclusive, precluding patient counseling, effective screening, and personalized treatment. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to compare long-term bowel function and quality of life in patients who underwent right or left hemicolectomy or sigmoid colon resection. DESIGN: This was a multicenter cross-sectional study. SETTINGS: Seven Dutch hospitals participated in this study. PATIENTS: This study included patients who underwent right or left hemicolectomy or sigmoid colon resection without construction of a permanent stoma between 2009 and 2015. Patients who were deceased, mentally impaired, or living abroad were excluded. Eligible patients were sent the validated Defecation and Fecal Continence and Short-Form 36 questionnaires. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Constipation, fecal incontinence (both Rome IV criteria), separate bowel symptoms, and generic quality of life were the main outcomes assessed. RESULTS: This study included 673 patients who underwent right hemicolectomy, 167 who underwent left hemicolectomy, and 284 who underwent sigmoid colon resection. The median follow-up was 56 months. Sigmoid colon resection increased the likelihood of constipation compared to right and left hemicolectomy (OR, 2.92; 95% CI, 1.80-4.75; p < 0.001 and OR, 1.93; 95% CI, 1.12-3.35; p = 0.019). Liquid incontinence and fecal urgency increased after right hemicolectomy compared to sigmoid colon resection (OR, 2.15; 95% CI, 1.47-3.16; p < 0.001 and OR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.47-2.74; p < 0.001). Scores on quality-of-life domains were found to be significantly lower after right hemicolectomy. LIMITATIONS: Because of the cross-sectional design, longitudinal data are still lacking. CONCLUSIONS: Different long-term bowel function problems occur after right or left hemicolectomy or sigmoid colon resection. The latter seems to be associated with more constipation than right or left hemicolectomy. Liquid incontinence and fecal urgency seem to be associated with right hemicolectomy, which may explain the decline in physical and mental generic quality of life of these patients. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/C13 . DISFUNCIN INTESTINAL A LARGO PLAZO Y DISMINUCIN DE LA CALIDAD DE VIDA DESPUS DE LA CIRUGA DE CNCER DE COLON SOLICITUD DE DETECCIN Y TRATAMIENTO PERSONALIZADOS: ANTECEDENTES:Las diferencias en los resultados a largo plazo con respecto a los tipos de resecciones de colon no son concluyentes, lo que impide el asesoramiento preoperatorio del paciente y la detección eficaz y el tratamiento personalizado de la disfunción intestinal postoperatoria durante el seguimiento.OBJETIVO:Comparar la función intestinal a largo plazo y la calidad de vida en pacientes sometidos a hemicolectomía derecha o izquierda, o resección de colon sigmoide.DISEÑO:Estudio transversal multicéntrico.AJUSTES:Participaron siete hospitales holandeses.PACIENTES:Se incluyeron pacientes sometidos a hemicolectomía derecha o izquierda, o resección de colon sigmoide sin construcción de estoma permanente entre 2009 y 2015. Se excluyeron pacientes fallecidos, con discapacidad mental o residentes en el extranjero. A los pacientes elegibles se les enviaron los cuestionarios validados de Defecación y Continencia Fecal y Short-Form 36.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Se evaluaron el estreñimiento, la incontinencia fecal (ambos criterios de Roma IV), los síntomas intestinales separados y la calidad de vida genérica.RESULTADOS:Se incluyeron 673 pacientes con hemicolectomía derecha, 167 con hemicolectomía izquierda y 284 con resección de colon sigmoide. La mediana de seguimiento fue de 56 meses (RIC 41-80). La resección del colon sigmoide aumentó la probabilidad de estreñimiento en comparación con la hemicolectomía derecha e izquierda (OR, 2,92, IC 95%, 1,80-4,75, p < 0,001 y OR 1,93, IC 95%, 1,12-3,35, p = 0,019). La incontinencia de líquidos y la urgencia fecal aumentaron después de la hemicolectomía derecha en comparación con la resección del colon sigmoide (OR, 2,15, IC 95%, 1,47-3,16, p < 0,001 y OR 2,01, IC 95%, 1,47-2,74, p < 0,001). Las puntuaciones en los dominios de calidad de vida fueron significativamente más bajas después de la hemicolectomía derecha.LIMITACIONES:Debido al diseño transversal, aún faltan datos longitudinales.CONCLUSIONES:Se producen diferentes problemas de función intestinal a largo plazo después de la hemicolectomía derecha o izquierda, o la resección del colon sigmoide. Este último parece estar asociado con más estreñimiento que la hemicolectomía derecha o izquierda. La incontinencia de líquidos y la urgencia fecal parecen estar asociadas a la hemicolectomía derecha, lo que puede explicar el deterioro de la calidad de vida física y mental en general de estos pacientes. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/C13 . (Traducción-Dr. Yolanda Colorado ).

Functional Outcomes After Surgery for Total Colonic, Long-Segment, Versus Rectosigmoid Segment Hirschsprung Disease.

OBJECTIVES: Knowledge on long-term outcomes in patients with Hirschsprung disease is progressing. Nevertheless, differences in outcomes according to aganglionic lengths are unclear. We compared long-term bowel function and generic quality of life in Hirschsprung patients with total colonic or long-segment versus rectosigmoid aganglionosis. METHODS: In this nationwide, cross-sectional study participants with proven Hirschsprung disease received the Defecation and Fecal Continence questionnaire, and the Child Health Questionnaire Child Form-87, or the WHO Quality of Life-100. We excluded deceased patients, patients who were younger than 8 years, lived abroad, had a permanent enterostomy, or were intellectually impaired. RESULTS: The study population (n = 334) was operated for rectosigmoid (83.9%), long-segment (8.7%), or total colonic aganglionosis (7.5%). Fecal incontinence in general was not significantly different between the three groups, but liquid fecal incontinence was significantly associated with total colonic aganglionosis (odds ratio [OR] = 6.00, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.07-17.38, P = 0.001). Regarding constipation, patients with total colonic or long-segment aganglionosis were less likely to suffer from constipation than the rectosigmoid group (OR = 0.21, 95% CI, 0.05-0.91, P = 0.038 and OR = 0.11, 95% CI, 0.01-0.83, P = 0.032). Quality of life was comparable between the three groups, except for a lower physical score in children with total colonic aganglionosis (P = 0.016). CONCLUSIONS: Over time Hirschsprung patients with total colonic or long-segment aganglionosis do not suffer from worse fecal incontinence in general. A difference in stool consistency may underlie the association between liquid fecal incontinence and total colonic aganglionosis and constipation in patients with rectosigmoid aganglionosis. Despite these differences, generic quality of life is comparable on reaching adulthood.

Did Age at Surgery Influence Outcome in Patients With Hirschsprung Disease? A Nationwide Cohort Study in the Netherlands.

OBJECTIVES: Hirschsprung disease (HD) requires surgical resection of affected bowel, but the current evidence is inconclusive regarding the optimal age for resection. The aim of this study was to assess whether age at resection of the aganglionic segment is a determinant for surgical outcomes. METHODS: A cross-sectional cohort study was done including all consecutive patients with HD between 1957 and 2015, aged 8 years or older (n = 830), who were treated in 1 of the 6 pediatric surgical centers in the Netherlands. Outcome measures were mortality, postoperative complications, stoma rate and redo surgery rate, retrieved from the medical records. Additionally, constipation and fecal incontinence rate in long term were assessed with the Defecation and Continence Questionnaire (DeFeC and P-DeFeC). RESULTS: The medical records of 830 patients were reviewed, and 346 of the 619 eligible patients responded to the follow-up questionnaires (56%). There was a small increase in the risk of a permanent stoma [odds ratio (OR) 1.01 (95% confidence interval {CI}: 1.00-1.02); P = 0.019] and a temporary stoma [OR 1.01 (95% CI: 1.00-1.01); P = 0.022] with increasing age at surgery, regardless of the length of the aganglionic segment and operation technique. Both adjusted and unadjusted for operation technique, length of disease, and temporary stoma, age at surgery was not associated with the probability and the severity of constipation and fecal incontinence in long term. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, we found no evidence that the age at surgery influences surgical outcomes, thus no optimal timing for surgery for HD could be determined.

The anorectal defaecation reflex: a prospective intervention study.

AIM: Our hypothesis is that there may be a neural pathway with sensory afferent neurons in the anal canal that leads to rectal contraction to assist defaecation. We aimed to compare rectal motility between healthy participants with or without anal anaesthesia. METHOD: This prospective intervention study consisted of two test sessions: a baseline session followed by an identical second session. During each session we performed the anal electrosensitivity test, the rectoanal inhibitory reflex test and rapid phasic barostat distensions. Prior to the second session, participants were randomly assigned to receive either a local anal anaesthetic or a placebo. RESULTS: We included 23 healthy participants aged 21.1 ± 0.5 years, 13 of whom received an anal anaesthetic and 10 a placebo. All participants showed a transient rectal contraction during the first test session, which decreased significantly after anal anaesthesia (18.6 ml vs. 4.9 ml, p = 0.019). The maximum rectal contraction was comparable to the baseline results in the placebo group. Furthermore, the electrosensitivity at the highest centimetre of the anal canal correlated with the maximum rectal contraction (r = -0.452, p = 0.045). CONCLUSION: All healthy study participants display an involuntary, reproducible rectal reflex contraction that appears to be innervated by afferent nerves in the proximal anal canal. The rectal reflex contraction appears to play a role in defaecation and we therefore refer to this phenomenon as the anorectal defaecation reflex. Knowledge of the anorectal defaecation reflex may have consequences for the diagnostics and treatment of constipation.

Measurement of distal intramural spread and the optimal distal resection by naked eyes after neoadjuvant radiation for rectal cancers.

BACKGROUND: The safe distance between the intraoperative resection line and the visible margin of the distal rectal tumor after preoperative radiotherapy is unclear. We aimed to investigate the furthest tumor intramural spread distance in fresh tissue to determine a safe distal intraoperative resection margin length. METHODS: Twenty rectal cancer specimens were collected after preoperative radiotherapy. Tumor intramural spread distances were defined as the distance between the tumor's visible and microscopic margins. Visible tumor margins in fresh specimens were identified during the operation and were labeled with 5 - 0 sutures under the naked eye at the distal 5, 6, and 7 o'clock directions of visible margins immediately after removal of the tumor. After fixation with formalin, the sutures were injected with nanocarbon particles. Longitudinal tissues were collected along three labels and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. The spread distance after formalin fixation was measured between the furthest intramural spread of tumor cells and the nanocarbon under a microscope. A positive intramural spread distance indicated that the furthest tumor cell was distal to the nanocarbon, and a negative value indicated that the tumor cell was proximal to the nanocarbon. The tumor intramural spread distance in fresh tissue during the operation was 1.75 times the tumor intramural spread distance after formalin fixation according to the literature. RESULTS: At the distal 5, 6, and 7 o'clock direction, seven (35%), five (25%), and six (30%) patients, respectively, had distal tumor cell intramural spread distance > 0 mm. The mean and 95% confidence interval of tumor cell intramural spread distance in fresh tissue during operation was - 0.3 (95%CI - 4.0 ~ 3.4) mm, - 0.9 (95%CI - 3.4 ~ 1.7) mm, and - 0.4 (95%CI - 3.5 ~ 2.8) mm, respectively. The maximal intraoperative intramural spread distances in fresh tissue were 8.8, 7, and 7 mm, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The intraoperative distance between the distal resection line and the visible margin of the rectal tumor after radiotherapy should not be less than 1 cm to ensure oncological safety.

Fecal Continence for Solid and Liquid Stool: The Function of the Anal-External Sphincter Continence Reflex and the Puborectal Continence Reflex.

BACKGROUND: The anal-external sphincter continence reflex and the puborectal continence reflex control fecal continence by involuntary contractions of the external anal sphincter and puborectal muscle. To date it is unknown what the effect of liquid stool is on these reflexes. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to analyze the consequence of liquid stool on the presence and function of these fecal continence reflexes. DESIGN: This was a prospective, observational study. SETTING: The study was conducted at the Anorectal Physiology Laboratory, University Medical Center Groningen. PATIENTS: Forty-two healthy subjects were included. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Pressure changes at the level of the external anal sphincter and the puborectal muscle during the anorectal pressure test used to measure voluntary contractions, the balloon retention test used to measure involuntary contractions mimicking solid stool, and the rectal infusion test used to investigate the effect of only water mimicking liquid stool were measured. RESULTS: During the test mimicking solid stool, the pressure at the level of the external anal sphincter increased from the start to the end (132 ± 54 vs 198 ± 69 mm Hg; p < 0.001). The pressure at the level of the puborectal muscle increased simultaneously (30 ± 9 vs 176 ± 52 mm Hg; p < 0.001). After injecting water into the rectum, mimicking liquid stool, we observed immediate activation of the anal-external sphincter continence reflex (87 ± 32 vs 145 ± 36 mm Hg; p < 0.001); this was after a median 30 seconds, whereas no activation of the puborectal continence reflex appeared (26 ± 9 vs 26 ± 7 mm Hg; p = 0.655). LIMITATIONS: We only performed anorectal function tests mimicking 2 types of stool consistencies, namely water and solid. CONCLUSIONS: The anal-external sphincter continence reflex controls fecal continence of both solid and liquid stool. Contrarily, the puborectal continence reflex contributes to solid stool continence only. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B286. CONTINENCIA FECAL PARA HECES SÓLIDAS Y LÍQUIDAS: LA FUNCIÓN DEL REFLEJO DE CONTINENCIA DEL ESFÍNTER ANAL EXTERNO Y EL REFLEJO DE CONTINENCIA PUBORRECTAL: El reflejo de continencia del esfínter anal externo y el reflejo de continencia puborrectal controlan la continencia fecal mediante contracciones involuntarias del esfínter anal externo y el músculo puborrectal, respectivamente. Hasta la fecha, se desconoce cuál es el efecto de las heces líquidas en estos reflejos.Analizar las consecuencias de las heces líquidas en la presencia y función de estos reflejos de continencia fecal.Estudio prospectivo observacional.Laboratorio de F fisiología anorrectal, University Medical Center Groningen.Cuarenta y dos sujetos sanos.Los cambios de presión a nivel del esfínter anal externo y el músculo puborrectal durante la prueba de presión anorrectal utilizada para medir las contracciones voluntarias, la prueba de retención con balón utilizada para medir las contracciones involuntarias que imitan las heces sólidas, y la prueba de infusión rectal utilizada para investigar El el efecto de solo agua imitando las heces líquidas.Durante la prueba que imita las heces sólidas, la presión a nivel del esfínter anal externo aumentó desde el principio hasta el final (132 ± 54 mm Hg versus 198 ± 69 mm Hg, p <0.001). La presión a nivel del músculo puborrectal aumentó simultáneamente (30 ± 9 mm Hg versus 176 ± 52 mm Hg, p <0,001).Después de inyectar agua en el recto, imitando las heces líquidas, observamos la activación inmediata del AESCR (87 ± 32 mm Hg versus 145 ± 36 mm Hg, p <0.001), esto fue después de una mediana de 30 segundos, mientras que no hubo activación de la continencia puborrectal apareció reflejo (26 ± 9 mm Hg versus 26 ± 7 mm Hg, p = 0,655).Solo realizamos pruebas de función anorrectal que imitan dos tipos de consistencia de heces, a saber, discriminando entre a agua y sólidos.El reflejo de continencia del esfínter anal-externo controla la continencia fecal de las heces sólidas y líquidas. Por el contrario, el reflejo de continencia puborrectal contribuye solo a la continencia de heces sólidas. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B286. (Traducción-Dr Adrian Ortega).

How Should the Low Anterior Resection Syndrome Score Be Interpreted?

BACKGROUND: Bowel dysfunction after low anterior resection is often assessed by determining the low anterior resection syndrome score. What is unknown, however, is whether this syndrome is already present in the general population and which nonsurgical factors are associated. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of minor and major low anterior resection syndrome in the general Dutch population and which other factors are associated with this syndrome. DESIGN: This was a cross-sectional study. SETTINGS: The study was conducted within the general Dutch population. PATIENTS: The Groningen Defecation and Fecal Continence Questionnaire was distributed among a general Dutch population-based sample (N = 1259). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Minor and major low anterior resection syndrome were classified according to the scores obtained. RESULTS: The median, overall score was 16 (range, 0-42). Minor low anterior resection syndrome was more prevalent than the major form (24.3% vs 12.2%; p < 0.001). Bowel disorders, including fecal incontinence, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome were associated with the syndrome, whereas sex, age, BMI, and vaginal delivery were not. Remarkably, patients with diabetes mellitus were significantly more prone to experience minor or major low anterior resection syndrome. The ORs were 2.8 (95% CI, 1.8-4.4) and 3.7 (95% CI, 2.2-6.2). LIMITATIONS: We selected frequent comorbidities and other patient-related factors that possibly influence the syndrome. Additional important factors do exist and require future research. CONCLUSIONS: Minor and major low anterior resection syndrome occur in a large portion of the general Dutch population and even in a healthy subgroup. This implies that the low anterior resection syndrome score can only be used to interpret the functional result of the low anterior resection provided that a baseline measurement of each individual is available. Furthermore, because people with low anterior resection syndrome often experience constipation and/or fecal incontinence, direct examination and diagnosis of these conditions might be a more efficient approach to treating patient bowel dysfunctions. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B110. ¿CÓMO DEBE INTERPRETARSE LA PUNTUACIÓN DEL SÍNDROME DE RESECCIÓN ANTERIOR BAJA?: La disfunción intestinal después de la resección anterior baja a menudo se evalúa determinando la puntuación del síndrome de resección anterior baja. Sin embargo, lo que se desconoce es si este síndrome ya está presente en la población general y qué factores no quirúrgicos están asociados.Determinar la prevalencia del síndrome de resección anterior baja menor y mayor en la población holandesa general y qué otros factores están asociados con este síndrome.Estudio transversal.Población holandesa general.El cuestionario de defecación y continencia fecal de Groningen se distribuyó entre una muestra general de población holandesa (N = 1259).El síndrome de resección anterior baja menor y mayor se clasificó de acuerdo con las puntuaciones obtenidas.La mediana de la puntuación general fue de 16.0 (rango 0-42). El síndrome de resección anterior baja menor fue más frecuente que la forma principal (24.3% versus 12.2%, (P <0.001). Los trastornos intestinales, incluyendo incontinencia fecal, estreñimiento y síndrome del intestino irritable se asociaron con el síndrome, mientras que el sexo, la edad y el cuerpo el índice de masa y el parto vaginal no lo hicieron. Notablemente, los pacientes con diabetes mellitus fueron significativamente más propensos a experimentar el síndrome de resección anterior baja menor o mayor. Las razones de probabilidad fueron 2.8 (IC 95%, 1.8-4.4) y 3.7 (IC 95%, 2.2 -6.2), respectivamente.Se seleccionaron las comorbilidades frecuentes y otros factores relacionados con el paciente que posiblemente influyen en el síndrome. Existen otros factores importantes que requieren investigación en el futuro.El síndrome de resección anterior baja menor y mayor ocurre en una gran parte de la población holandesa general e incluso en un subgrupo sano. Esto implica que la puntuación del síndrome de resección anterior baja solo se puede utilizar para interpretar el resultado funcional de la resección anterior baja, siempre que esté disponible una medición inicial de cada individuo. Además, dado que las personas con síndrome de resección anterior baja a menudo experimentan estreñimiento y/o incontinencia fecal, el examen directo y el diagnóstico de estas afecciones pueden ser un enfoque más eficiente para tratar las disfunciones intestinales de los pacientes. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B110.

The influence of demographic characteristics on constipation symptoms: a detailed overview.

BACKGROUND: Diagnosing constipation remains difficult and its treatment continues to be ineffective. The reason may be that the symptom patterns of constipation differ in different demographic groups. We aimed to determine the pattern of constipation symptoms in different demographic groups and to define the symptoms that best indicate constipation. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study the Groningen Defecation and Fecal Continence questionnaire was completed by a representative sample of the adult Dutch population (N = 892). We diagnosed constipation according to the Rome IV criteria for constipation. RESULTS: The Rome criteria were fulfilled by 15.6% of the study group and we found the highest prevalence of constipation in women and young adults (19.7 and 23.5%, respectively). Symptom patterns differed significantly between constipated respondents of various ages, while we did not observe sex-based differences. Finally, we found a range of constipation symptoms, not included in the Rome IV criteria, that showed marked differences in prevalence between constipated and non-constipated individuals, especially failure to defecate (∆ = 41.2%). CONCLUSIONS: Primarily, we found that certain symptoms of constipation are age-dependent. Moreover, we emphasize that symptoms of constipation not included in the Rome IV criteria, such as daily failure to defecate and an average duration of straining of more than five minutes, are also reliable indicators of constipation. Therefore, we encourage clinicians to adopt a more comprehensive approach to diagnosing constipation.

Fecal continence outcomes are associated with the type, height, and stage procedure of ileal pouch-anal anastomosis.

PURPOSE: This study aims to analyze the quality of life in patients with an ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) and to investigate the association between height and type of the anastomosis, the number of stage procedures and age, and the fecal continence outcomes. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional retrospective study in patients who had undergone IPAA between 1992 and 2016 (N = 133). We sent questionnaires to 102 eligible patients (64% response rate). We used the Wexner score to assess fecal incontinence: 0 = no incontinence to 20 = complete incontinence. We used RAND-36 to measure quality of life. RESULTS: Patients who underwent mucosectomy with hand-sewn anastomoses (n = 11, 17%) had significantly higher median Wexner scores than patients with stapled anastomoses (10 versus 3, P = 0.003). Lower anastomoses correlated significantly with increasing Wexner scores (r = - 0.468, P < 0.001). Quality of life of incontinent patients was diminished. Patients who were older at the time of IPAA surgery had higher Wexner scores (P = 0.004), while the time between surgery and questionnaire did not influence their Wexner scores (P = 0.810). Considering the stage procedures, multiple linear regression showed that the two-stage procedure without diverting ileostomy was significantly associated with higher Wexner scores (B = 0.815, P = 0.02), adjusted for sex (P = 0.008) and anastomosis type (P = 0.002). The three-stage procedure showed equally low complications and anastomotic leakage rates. CONCLUSION: Mucosectomy with more distal, hand-sewn anastomosis and increasing age at IPAA surgery was associated with poorer fecal continence outcomes. The three-stage procedure appears to give the best fecal continence results without increasing complications. Furthermore, incontinence reduced patient's quality of life.