Does botulinum type-A toxin affect motor activity after proctocolectomy and ileal pouch-anal anastomosis? An experimental study in dogs

Abstract

Aim of the study: The use of anticholinergic drugs has provided a useful therapeutic approach to reduce stool frequency in patients with proctocolectomy and ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA). Botulinum type-A (BTA) toxin has been shown to specifically block acetylcholine release in the intestinal wall. Therefore this study investigated the effect of BTA on small intestinal and J-pouch motility after IPAA.

Material and methods: Proctocolectomy and IPAA were performed in 4 dogs. The motility of the small intestine and the ileal pouch was recorded by serosal electrodes and strain gauge transducers. The intestinal transit time was determined radiologically and pouch compliance was determined manometrically. Multiple measurements were performed before and after endoscopic injection of BTA into the pouch wall.

Results: This treatment did not significantly influence stool frequency, intestinal transit time or pouch compliance. Intrinsic pouch motility was characterized by irregular contractions, the amplitudes and frequencies of which remained unchanged after BTA administration. With the exception of lower contraction amplitudes directly proximal to the pouch, there were no significant differences in the characteristics of the migrating myoelectric complex or in the fed pattern of the small intestine and ileal pouch.

Conclusions: BTA does not significantly affect ileal pouch motility. The beneficial effects of anticholinergic drugs therefore seem to be due to their multifactorial mode of action and not to the inhibition of cholinergic neurons in the pouch.