Review: behavioural interventions plus laxatives are effective for defecation disorders in children, but biofeedback does not add benefit
QUESTION: In children with defecation disorders, are behavioural interventions effective?
Data sources
12 databases were searched in March 2001, reference lists were scanned, and experts were contacted.
Study selection
Randomised or quasi-randomised controlled trials of cognitive, behavioural, or cognitive and behavioural interventions in children with a history of faecal soiling with and without constipation were included.
Data extraction
Data were extracted on participant characteristics, interventions, outcomes (including number of unsuccessful children [not cured or improved]), and study quality.
Main results
14 studies (12 randomised controlled trials, 843 children) met the selection criteria. Children had encopresis in 12 studies and faecal incontinence resulting from congenital abnormalities in 2 studies. Study duration was 2–6 weeks in 6 studies, 8–18 weeks in 6 studies, and 12 …
