Biofeedback on Faecal Incontinence After Anorectal Malformations Repair: Effects Through Four Months: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background. Surgical repair for anorectal malformation in children had post-operative unsatisfactory results as children still suffering from faecal incontinence. Objective. The effect of Biofeedback in treating children fecal incontinence after anorectal malformations repair was investigated. Methodology. A randomized controlled trial design was conducted in the Pediatric hospital, Mansoura University. Forty-eight children with postsurgical anorectal malformations repair were assessed for eligibility. Forty children (twenty-two boys and eighteen girls) underwent simple randomization into two matched groups, control and study group. The anal function was assessed by Anorectal manometry and faecal incontinence was evaluated by Baylor social continence scale. Measurements were done before and after two months of intervention, and after four months of follow-up. Result. There was statistically significant improvement in maximal resting anal pressure, maximal voluntary contraction pressure, voluntary contraction time, the threshold of rectal sensation, maximal tolerable rectal volume and Baylor social continence scale (P < 0.05) for biofeedback group after two months of intervention and four months of follow-up in comparison with conservative treatment. Conclusion. Biofeedback improved faecal incontinence after ARM repair and had an intermediate follow up effect in conjunction with conservative interventions.