Original Article
Spinal Cord (2008) 46, 234–238; doi:10.1038/sj.sc.3102121; published online 25 September 2007
The pattern of colorectal dysfunction changes with time since spinal cord injury
P M Faaborg1,2,3, P Christensen1,2,3, N Finnerup4, S Laurberg1 and K Krogh2,3
- 1Surgical Research Unit, Department of Surgery P, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- 2Neurogastroenterology Unit, Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology V, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- 3Department of Surgery P, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- 4Pain Research Centre, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
Correspondence: Dr PM Faaborg, Surgical Research Unit, Department of Surgery P, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus Sygehus, Tage-Hansensgade 2, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark. E-mail: pmfaaborg@gmail.com
Received 19 May 2007; Revised 31 July 2007; Accepted 13 August 2007; Published online 25 September 2007.
Abstract
Background:
Cross-sectional studies suggest that colorectal dysfunction after spinal cord injuries (SCI) worsens as time goes by. However, follow-up studies are needed to prove this.
Study design:
Prospective study.
Objective:
To describe long-term colorectal function in SCI patients.
Setting:
Members of the Danish Spinal Cord Injuries Association.
Methods:
In 1996, 424 members of the Danish Paraplegic Association answered a detailed questionnaire describing their colorectal function. In 2006, those who continued as members (n=284) received an identical questionnaire. Data for patients responding both in 1996 and in 2006 (n=159) were compared.
Results:
In 1996, 25% of the respondents reported that colorectal dysfunction had some or a major impact on their quality of life. At follow-up 10 years later, it was 38% (P<0.005). In 1996 11% defecated less than every second day and 16% spent more than 30 min at each defecation; in 2006, it was 19% (P<0.01) and 25% (P<0.00001), respectively. Digital anorectal stimulation or evacuation was performed at least once every week by 48% in 1996 and by 56% in 2006 (P<0.0001). Fecal incontinence was reported at least once a month by 22% in 1996 and by 17% in 2006 (P<0.001).
Conclusion:
While the frequency and severity of constipation-related symptoms increase with time since SCI, there is a decrease in the frequency of fecal incontinence.
Keywords:
spinal cord injury, spinal cord lesions, constipation, fecal incontinence, quality of life
MORE ARTICLES LIKE THIS
These links to content published by NPG are automatically generated
RESEARCH
The pattern of colorectal dysfunction changes with time since spinal cord injury
Spinal Cord Original Article
Neurogenic bowel dysfunction score
Spinal Cord Original Article
Neurogenic bowel dysfunction score
Spinal Cord Original Article
Treatment of neurogenic bowel dysfunction using transanal irrigation: a multicenter Italian study
Spinal Cord Original Article
