At the Colorectal Center,
children with chronic idiopathic constipation receive comprehensive care from a
team of physicians that includes gastrointestinal specialists, urologists and
colorectal surgeons, as well as nurses, dietitians and others.
Chronic idiopathic constipation
refers to constipation for which there is no known cause, and it can range from
being somewhat mild to severe. It is one of the most common bowel movement
disorders among children. A multidisciplinary approach is essential, because
the causes of chronic constipation in children can be both subtle and complex. We
are able to help patients who have been suffering from chronic idiopathic
constipation for many years.
Treatment Options
Idiopathic constipation can be
treated but not cured. For many patients, an individualized diet provides
significant relief. Sometimes, our team also recommends laxatives or enemas. Another
option is for patients to participate in the Colorectal Center’s highly
successful, week-long Bowel Management Program.
A very small percentage of
patients with chronic constipation may need surgery to remove the sigmoid colon
and upper rectum. And some patients benefit from sacral nerve stimulation, a
novel treatment that involves implanting a device that delivers mild electrical
pulses to the pelvic nerves. The Colorectal Center is one of only a few
institutions in the world that offers sacral nerve stimulation for children.