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

Abstract

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.