Non-invasive Sacral Nerve Stimulation in Children and Adolescents With Chronic Constipation

Inclusion Criteria: * age between 2-17 years * informed consent * chronic constipation according to the ROME IV criteria for more than 3 months with or without encopresis/soiling * refractory to conventional treatment in a sufficient application (training for bowel movements, lifestyle changes, pelvic floor training) * exclusion of metabolic, inflammatory and hormonal causes for chronic constipation (such as e.g., celiac disease, cystic fibrosis, hypothyroidism) * in cases of underlying Hirschsprung's disease: confirmation of diagnosis via rectal biopsies * in cases of anorectal malformation: post-surgical status Exclusion Criteria: * metabolic, inflammatory and hormonal causes for chronic constipation with further therapeutic options * toxic megacolon or further emergencies, which must be treated surgically * fractures or substantial differences in the sacral anatomy * inflammatory bowel disorders * rectal prolapse * neuronal malignancies under medical and radiation therapy * seizures