Evaluation of the initial impact of transcutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation in children with intestinal constipation

Abstract

Intestinal Chronic constipation (ICC) is considered an extremely common condition in the pediatric age group, accounting for approximately 3% of all medical consultations in pediatrics. Most children with ICC are functionally receptive to standard treatment. However, some patients may present an unsatisfactory response, with no significant improvement in symptoms. These children are classified as having chronic or refractory ICC. In these cases, alternative treatments may be used. Transcutaneous Electrical Tibial Nerve Stimulation (PTNS) has been described as a therapy capable of modulating urinary and stimulation of the sacral nerves. It is considered a minimally invasive, well-tolerated and accessible technique that has been increasingly used in the treatment of urinary dysfunction in childhood. This technique has potential effect for the improvement of intestinal constipation. For all this, we have decided to evaluate the applicability and clinical results of PTNS in the treatment of children with chronic intestinal constipation. For this, we propose to conduct a clinical, longitudinal, cohort, prospective, uncontrolled study whose data collection will occur in the 12-month period. The sample shall consist of approximately 30 children, aged between 7 and 18 years, who will undergo transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation of the posterior tibial nerve in a home environment in a period of eight weeks, being evaluated before and after the intervention. The expected results are the improvement of the clinical variables related to chronic intestinal constipation, related to intestinal habit, fecal incontinence and quality of life.