Beyond the Child: A Systematic Review of Parental Wellbeing and Family Functioning in Paediatric Colorectal Conditions.

INTRODUCTION

Families of children with anorectal malformation (ARM) and Hirschsprung disease (HD) often experience ongoing caregiving demands extending beyond the child's medical management. This systematic review aimed to synthesise quantitative literature examining parental wellbeing and family functioning outcomes among families of children with ARM or HD.

METHODS

Using the PRISMA protocol, a systematic search was conducted across Ovid Medline, Embase, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and CINAHL. Eligible studies included quantitative studies evaluating psychosocial outcomes relating to parents or families of children (aged <18 years) surgically treated for ARM or HD. Data extraction and quality appraisal using the Joanna Briggs Institute tool were completed independently by two reviewers.

RESULTS

From 1205 records identified, nine studies met inclusion criteria and were synthesised without meta-analysis due to methodological heterogeneity. Across studies, families reported challenges relating to psychological wellbeing, parenting stress, caregiving burden, and family functioning, particularly in the context of ongoing bowel dysfunction and faecal incontinence. However, there was also considerable variability in resilience and adaptation among families.

DISCUSSION: Current evidence suggested that ARM and HD may have significant psychosocial impacts on the broader family unit. Future research should prioritise longitudinal and family-centred approaches to better inform integrated models of biopsychosocial care.