A new normal: Malone procedure gives 9-year-old better quality of life

McKenzie and Carolyn Davis accompanied by one of the members of the Doggie Brigade.

When McKenzie Costain’s family first shared her story in June 2025, they were in the thick of managing daily symptoms from a chronic bowel condition. This included daily rectal enemas to cope with chronic constipation. Today, life looks very different.

In July 2025, McKenzie, age 9, underwent a surgical option called the Malone procedure. During the procedure, pediatric surgeon Dr. Justin Huntington created a small channel in her abdomen that allows an enema to be given from the top of the colon – as opposed to rectally – to help her bowel empty more effectively and predictably.

“The Malone procedure can help improve comfort, prevent accidents and help children regain independence and confidence in daily life,” said Carolyn Davis, APRN-CNP, pediatric surgery colorectal nurse practitioner and one of McKenzie’s providers.

Before the procedure, McKenzie couldn’t fully clear her bowels due to severe constipation. She relied on her mom to help with daily enemas which caused some tension between the 2 of them.

Since the procedure, McKenzie’s mom, Lindsey, said she’s no longer complaining of daily belly pain.

“That relief has made a noticeable impact on McKenzie’s day-to-day life,” she said.

In July 2025, McKenzie, age 9, underwent a surgical option called the Malone procedure to help her bowel empty more effectively and predictably.

Recovery and resilience

Post-surgery included a few challenges, but Lindsey wasn’t surprised by how her daughter handled it.

“Nothing surprised me about how she bounced back because she is tough, and I knew she could get through it,” she said.

The most immediate change in McKenzie’s life is her bowel-management routine which used to take a significant amount of time and could be stressful.

“The Malone procedure has definitely made things quicker, easier and more convenient,” Lindsey said. “McKenzie’s school day is no longer being disrupted because of symptoms or accidents.”

For McKenzie, the biggest change is her growing independence and confidence as a result of the procedure.

“She’s trying to do the enema on her own, and she’s doing well,” Lindsey said. “She starts it, and I help her finish. She can do it on her own now – I’m just not sure I’m ready to take that next step,” she joked about her daughter’s newfound independence.

McKenzie, pictured with her surgeon, Dr. Justin Huntington, can now fully participate in the things she loves without worry.

Back to doing what she loves

Before the procedure, worries about accidents could interrupt practices, playdates and sleepovers. Now, McKenzie can fully participate in the things she loves – including softball.

“She can get through softball practice without having to worry about having an accident or having to run to the porta potty,” Lindsey said.

From Lindsey’s perspective, the greatest benefit of the Malone procedure goes beyond symptom relief.

“Our relationship has gotten so much better,” she said. “We’re no longer fighting over her bowel-management routine. She has more freedom.”

That emotional shift has been just as meaningful as the physical improvements. Lindsey said the Malone procedure has been a game changer for their family.

“I would encourage other families who have the option to do it sooner rather than later,” she said.

For McKenzie, the procedure has created a new normal that gives her the confidence and freedom to simply be a kid. She’s able to enjoy childhood in ways her family once only hoped for – and it’s a difference everyone can feel.