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Background: Colonic manometry with intraluminal bisacodyl infusion can be used to assess colonic neuromuscular function in children with treatment‐refractory constipation. If bisacodyl does not induce high‐amplitude propagating contractions (HAPCs), this can be an indication for surgical intervention. A detailed characterization of the colonic response to intraluminal bisacodyl in children with constipation may help to inform clinical interpretation of colonic manometry studies. Methods: Studies were performed in five pediatric hospitals. Analysis included identification of HAPCs, reporting HAPCs characteristics, and an area under the curve (AUC) analysis. Comparisons were performed between hospitals, catheter type, placement techniques, and site of bisacodyl infusion. Results: One hundred and sixty‐five children were included (median age 10, range 1‐17 years; n = 96 girls). One thousand eight hundred and ninety‐three HAPCs were identified in 154 children (12.3 ± 8.8 HAPCs per child, 0.32 ± 0.21 HAPCs per min; amplitude 113.6 ± 31.5 mm Hg; velocity 8.6 ± 3.8 mm/s, propagation length 368 ± 175 mm). The mean time to first HAPC following bisacodyl was 553 ± 669 s. Prior to the first HAPC, there was no change in AUC when comparing pre‐ vs post‐bisacodyl (Z = −0.53, P =.60). The majority of HAPCs terminated in a synchronous pressurization in the rectosigmoid. Defecation was associated with HAPCs (χ2(1)=7.04, P <.01). Site of bisacodyl administration, catheter type, and hospital location did not alter the response. Conclusions and Inferences: Intraluminal bisacodyl induced HAPCs in 93% of children with treatment‐refractory constipation. The bisacodyl response is characterized by ≥1 HAPC within 12 minutes of infusion. The majority of HAPCs terminate in a synchronous pressurization in the rectosigmoid. Optimal clinical management based upon colonic manometry findings is yet to be determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Defecatory disorders in children, including chronic constipation (CC) and fecal incontinence (FI), are common conditions worldwide and have a significant impact on children, their families, and the healthcare system. Anorectal manometry (ARM) and high‐resolution anorectal manometry (HRAM) are relatively novel tools for the assessment of anal sphincter function and rectal sensation and have contributed significantly to improving the understanding of the anorectum as a functional unit. ARM has been recognized as the investigation of choice for adults with symptoms of defecation disorders, including fecal incontinence (FI), evacuation difficulties, and constipation. Although it is the gold standard tool in adults, it has yet to be formally accepted as a standardized diagnostic tool in the pediatric age, with limited knowledge regarding indications, protocol, and normal values. ARM/HRAM is slowly becoming recognized among pediatricians, but given that there are currently no agreed guidelines there is a risk that will lead to diversity in practice. The British Society of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (BSPGHAN)—Motility Working Group (MWG) therefore has taken the opportunity to provide guidance on the use of ARM/HRAM in children with CC and/or FI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]