Effects of Dielectric Monopolar Radiofrequency with Vacuumtherapy in the Treatment of Chronic Constipation in Patients with Intellectual Developmental Disorders

Aim Chronic constipation is a high prevalence complication in patients with intellectual developmental disorders due to medication intake and physical activity reduction. Several manual therapy techniques have achieved good results at its treatment, being these a considerable option as no adverse effects have been shown. Nevertheless, the use of electrotherapy devices has not been studied on chronic constipation treatment. These may be considered as a potential tool which may supplement treatment. Thermotherapy by dielectric monopolar radiofrequency (DMR) linked to vacuum therapy could activate local blood irrigation at the colon level and peristaltic movements due to mechanic push-pull. The aim of this study is therefore to prove the efficacy of DMR linked to vacuum therapy for the treatment of chronic constipation in intellectual developmental disorders patients. Methods Nineteen patients which met the inclusion criteria were chosen. Number of stools and shape of them (Bristol Stool Questionnaire) were measured in a period of 14 days, when patients received their common care techniques for chronic constipation. After that, patients received 14 days of DMR linked to vacuum therapy treatment. The same variables were measured in the meantime so as to observe possible differences. Results DMR linked to vacuum therapy proved an improvement in number of stools per day and the shape/quality of them. No adverse results were observed. Conclusion DMR linked to vacuum treatment seems effective for the treatment of chronic constipation in intellectual developmental disorders patients.