Neurogenic bowel is a condition that affects how the bowel works due to nerve problems. When the nerves that control the intestines do not function properly, a child may have trouble emptying their bowels or controlling their bowel movements. This can lead to constipation, stool leakage or incontinence, and discomfort.
At CHRISTUS Health, our pediatric surgical team provides expert, compassionate care to help manage this condition. Through personalized treatment plans, we support each child’s comfort, dignity, and quality of life.
Neurogenic bowel most often affects children with conditions that affect the nerves supplying the intestines. These conditions include:
CHRISTUS Children's General Surgery Clinic in San Antonio provides exceptional surgical care for infants, children, and teens.
The intestines move stool through the bowel using a process called peristalsis, which is controlled by nerves. If the nerves are damaged or missing, the signals that tell the bowel to contract and push stool forward do not work correctly. This can cause stool to move too slowly, leading to constipation, or too quickly, leading to diarrhea or incontinence. Without proper nerve signals, the rectum may not empty completely, and stool can build up over time.
While neurogenic bowel cannot be cured, it can be managed with different treatments to help children stay clean, comfortable and healthy. Common management options include:
Each child’s bowel program is tailored to their needs and may require adjustments over time.
