Faculty Collaboration Database

Interobserver variability in the interpretation of colon manometry studies in children. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2012 Nov;55(5):548-51

Date

04/03/2012

Pubmed ID

22465932

DOI

10.1097/MPG.0b013e3182569c8b

Scopus ID

2-s2.0-84869089333 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site)   17 Citations

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the variability in interpretation of colon manometry (CM) in children.

METHODS: Fifty-seven colon motility studies were independently reviewed by 5 observers. Each observer was required to report on the colonic motility during fasting, after administration of a meal, and after bisacodyl stimulation. They were also asked to comment whether CM study was normal or abnormal and whether in their opinion the postprandial recording provided clinically useful information.

RESULTS: The median (range) agreement regarding the presence of high-amplitude propagating contractions (HAPC) was 83% (80%-92%). The interpretation of gastrocolonic response produced the most inconsistent results with median (range) agreemnet of 64% (53%-95%). The postprandial period was reported to be useful in only 3% to 24% of the studies. The median (range) agreement regarding the overall interpretation of the study being either normal or abnormal was 87% (83%-90%).

CONCLUSIONS: The most easily recognizable contraction pattern during CM is the high-amplitude propagating contractions. Visual interpretation of the gastrocolonic response produces the most inconsistent results and maximum variability. Abbreviated CM studies without the postprandial period or routine calculation of the motility index to evaluate gastrocolonic response can help make colon manometries more objective and reliable.

Author List

Sood MR, Mousa H, Tipnis N, Di Lorenzo C, Werlin S, Fernandez S, Liem O, Simpson P, Rudolph C

Author

Pippa M. Simpson PhD Adjunct Professor in the Pediatrics department at Medical College of Wisconsin

MESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold

Child
Colon
Fasting
Gastrointestinal Motility
Humans
Manometry
Middle Aged
Muscle Contraction
Observer Variation
Postprandial Period
Reference Values
Visual Perception