Patient-Reported Experience in Colorectal Disease is Predicted by Cleanliness

In brief

This study examines how bowel management programs impact patient experience—including social participation, independence, and self-confidence—in children with anorectal malformations, Hirschsprung disease, and functional constipation. The research explores the relationship between achieving cleanliness and broader quality-of-life outcomes beyond traditional clinical metrics.

• Cleanliness achieved through bowel management programs directly predicts patient-reported experience in children with colorectal disease.
• Patient experience encompasses relationships, sports participation, independence, and self-confidence—domains beyond traditional clinical outcomes.
• Children with ARM, Hirschsprung disease, and functional constipation benefit from structured bowel management programs targeting cleanliness.
• Quality of life metrics alone may not capture the full impact of bowel management on daily functioning and psychosocial well-being.
• Optimizing cleanliness through BMP may improve broader patient experience outcomes in pediatric colorectal populations.

Written by the GCMD Library team from the article.