Potty Stools, a Pilot Study to Step Up the Management of Functional Constipation in Children

• Published in: Clinical pediatrics 2024-09, p.99228241278900
• Main Authors: Reeves, Patrick T, Meyers, Taylor, Howard, Bailey, Rogers, Philip L, Jack, Benjamin, Kolasinski, Nathan T, Burklow, Carolyn Sullivan, Min, Steve, Nylund, Cade M
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0009-9228; 1938-2707; 1938-2707
• DOI: 10.1177/00099228241278900

Functional constipation (FC) comprises 30% of pediatric gastroenterology clinic visits. FC results from withholding behaviors that can be worsened by poor toileting posture. The use of a defecation posture modification device (DPMD)-a potty stool-has demonstrated benefit in adults. The aim of this study was to assess the risks and benefits of incorporating a DPMD as an adjunct to the FC treatment plan for children. Toilet-trained children aged ≥4 years meeting the Rome IV criteria for FC were enrolled and offered a DPMD at no cost and were followed for 4 months. There were no injuries or treatment-related adverse events reported by the 43 subjects who completed the study. Notably, 98% (n = 42) of respondents would recommend the DPMD to assist other children with FC. DPMD users showed a 33% reduction in fecal incontinence compared with 60% non-users. The DPMD represents a safe adjunct to incorporate into the FC management plan of children.