Review of management of refractory constipation: What lies ahead

Author(s): Dr. Dinesh Banur Onkarappa1, Dr. Vidya Puttagunta2, Dr. Swapna Rani Bade3
1Consultant Pediatrics, Yas Clinic, Khalifa City, Abudhabi, UAE.
2Specialist Pediatrician, NMC Royal Hospital, Khalifa City, Abudhabhi, UAE.
3General Practitioner, Pediatrics, Yasclinic, Khalifa City, Abudhabi, UAE.
Copyright © Dr. Dinesh Banur Onkarappa, Dr. Vidya Puttagunta, Dr. Swapna Rani Bade. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Abstract

Childhood constipation is a prevalent issue globally. Certain children experience persistent constipation and soiling, either as a result of surgical repair of anorectal malformations or underlying medical conditions that present management challenges. These refractory cases of constipation significantly affect the psychological well-being of both patients and their families. The available treatment options for refractory constipation are not clearly established. However, prompt and appropriate management of constipation contributes to an enhanced health-related quality of life. This article explores the current modalities available for treating children with challenging constipation and examines their impact on health-related quality of life.

Keywords: Quality of life; Constipation; Refractory.