Systematic review of safety and effectiveness of an artificial bowel sphincter for faecal incontinence

Accidental Bowel Leakage/Fecal Incontinence: Evidence-Based Management

Fecal incontinence is a highly prevalent and debilitating condition that negatively impacts quality of life. The etiology is often multifactorial and treatment can be hindered by lack of understanding of its mechanisms and available treatment options. This article reviews the evidence-based update for the management of fecal incontinence.

Sacral nerve stimulation versus the magnetic sphincter augmentation device for adult faecal incontinence: the SaFaRI RCT

BACKGROUND

Preliminary studies using the FENIX™ (Torax Medical, Minneapolis, MN, USA) magnetic sphincter augmentation device suggest that it is safe to use for the treatment of adult faecal incontinence, but efficacy data are limited.

OBJECTIVE

To compare FENIX with sacral nerve stimulation for the treatment of adult faecal incontinence in terms of safety, efficacy, quality of life and cost-effectiveness.

DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Multicentre, parallel-group, unblinded, randomised trial comparing FENIX with sacral nerve stimulation in participants suffering moderate to severe faecal incontinence.

INTERVENTIONS

Participants were randomised on an equal basis to either sacral nerve stimulation or FENIX. Follow-up occurred 2 weeks postoperatively and at 6, 12 and 18 months post randomisation.

MAIN OUTCOME AND MEASURE

The primary outcome was success, defined as device in use and ≥ 50% improvement in Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score at 18 months post randomisation. Secondary outcomes included complication rates, quality of life and cost-effectiveness. Between 30 October 2014 and 23 March 2017, 99 participants were randomised across 18 NHS sites (50 participants to FENIX vs. 49 participants to sacral nerve stimulation). The median time from randomisation to FENIX implantation was 57.0 days (range 4.0-416.0 days), and the median time from randomisation to permanent sacral nerve stimulation was 371.0 days (range 86.0-918.0 days). A total of 45 out of 50 participants underwent FENIX implantation and 29 out of 49 participants continued to permanent sacral nerve stimulation. The following results are reported, excluding participants for whom the corresponding outcome was not evaluable. Overall, there was success for 10 out of 80 (12.5%) participants, with no statistically significant difference between the two groups [FENIX 6/41 (14.6%) participants vs. sacral nerve stimulation 4/39 (10.3%) participants]. At least one postoperative complication was experienced by 33 out of 45 (73.3%) participants in the FENIX group and 9 out of 40 (22.5%) participants in the sacral nerve stimulation group. A total of 15 out of 50 (30%) participants in the FENIX group ultimately had to have their device explanted. Slightly higher costs and quality-adjusted life-years (incremental = £305.50 and 0.005, respectively) were observed in the FENIX group than in the sacral nerve stimulation group. This was reversed over the lifetime horizon (incremental = -£1306 and -0.23 for costs and quality-adjusted life-years, respectively), when sacral nerve stimulation was the optimal option (net monetary benefit = -£3283), with only a 45% chance of FENIX being cost-effective.

LIMITATIONS

The SaFaRI study was terminated in 2017, having recruited 99 participants of the target sample size of 350 participants. The study is, therefore, substantially underpowered to detect differences between the treatment groups, with significant uncertainty in the cost-effectiveness analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

The SaFaRI study revealed inefficiencies in the treatment pathways for faecal incontinence, particularly for sacral nerve stimulation. The success of both FENIX and sacral nerve stimulation was much lower than previously reported, with high postoperative morbidity in the FENIX group.

FUTURE WORK

Further research is needed to clarify the treatment pathways for sacral nerve stimulation and to determine its true clinical and cost-effectiveness.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN16077538.

FUNDING

This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 25, No. 18. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.

The Artificial Bowel Sphincter in the Treatment of Fecal Incontinence, Long-term Complications

BACKGROUND

Fecal incontinence is a common and debilitating condition, of which the prevalence increases with age. Several medical and minimally invasive treatment modalities are available. However, for patients with greater sphincter defects, these treatments are often not sufficient. For these patients, the artificial bowel sphincter could be an alternative to colostomy. The artificial bowel sphincter has proven to be effective in the short term. Less is known whether the benefits sustain over time.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess the long-term outcome of the artificial bowel sphincter in patients with refractory fecal incontinence.

DESIGN

A retrospective record review was conducted in conjunction with questionnaires.

SETTING

This study was conducted in a tertiary hospital setting.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary end point was any complication. The secondary end point was fecal loss.

PATIENTS

The patients included were adults experiencing severe fecal incontinence treated with artificial bowel sphincter, operated on between 1997 and 2014.

RESULTS

Sixty-three patients were included in this study. After a median follow-up of 57 months (range, 1-198), the device had been explanted in 31 patients (49.2%; 95% CI, 36.5-62.0). In total, 101 reoperations were conducted, ranging from 1 to 6 reoperations per patient. The main reasons for revision were device failure and infection. At 5 years follow-up, 80% of the cohort had experienced a complication requiring surgery. Twenty-two (35%) patients had restored continence.

LIMITATIONS

This study was limited by its retrospective design and subjective secondary outcome.

CONCLUSION

Patients with severe end-stage fecal incontinence can benefit from artificial bowel sphincter, but this requires a large number of reoperations, and at least 20% of patients will eventually have a colostomy. Therefore, careful patient selection and the involvement of patients in decision making regarding the potential benefits and limitations of this technique are paramount. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B242. EL ESFÍNTER INTESTINAL ARTIFICIAL EN EL TRATAMIENTO DE LA INCONTINENCIA FECAL, COMPLICACIONES A LARGO PLAZO: La incontinencia fecal es una condición común y debilitante, cuya prevalencia aumenta con la edad. Se encuentran disponibles varias modalidades de tratamiento médico y mínimamente invasivo. Sin embargo, para pacientes con defectos del esfínter mayores, estos tratamientos a menudo no son suficientes. Para estos pacientes, el esfínter intestinal artificial (ABS) podría ser una alternativa a la colostomía. El esfínter intestinal artificial demostró ser efectivo a corto plazo. Se sabe menos si los beneficios se mantienen a lo largo del tiempo.El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el resultado a largo plazo del esfínter intestinal artificial en pacientes con incontinencia fecal refractaria.Se realizó una revisión retrospectiva de los registros junto con los cuestionarios.Realizado en un entorno de hospital de tercel nivel.El punto final primario fue cualquier complicación, el punto final secundario fue la pérdida fecal.Los pacientes incluidos fueron adultos que padecían incontinencia fecal severa tratados con esfínter intestinal artificial, operados entre 1997 y 2014.Sesenta y tres pacientes fueron incluidos en este estudio. Después de una mediana de seguimiento de 57 meses (rango 1-198), el dispositivo había sido explantado en 31 pacientes (49.2%; 95CI 36.5-62.0). En total, se realizaron 101 reoperaciones, que oscilaron de una a seis reoperaciones por paciente. Las principales razones para la revisión fueron la falla del dispositivo y la infección. A los cinco años de seguimiento, el 80% de la cohorte había experimentado una complicación que requería cirugía. 22 pacientes habían recuperado la continencia (35%).Diseño retrospectivo y resultado secundario subjetivo.Los pacientes con incontinencia fecal grave en etapa terminal pueden beneficiarse del esfínter intestinal artificial, pero esto requiere una gran cantidad de reoperaciones y al menos el 20% de los pacientes eventualmente tendrán una colostomía. Por lo tanto, la selección cuidadosa del paciente y la participación de los pacientes en la toma de decisiones con respecto a los posibles beneficios y limitaciones de esta técnica es primordial. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B242.

Comparative analysis of occlusion methods for artificial sphincters

An artificial sphincter is a device that replaces the function of the biological sphincter by occluding the relative biological lumen. The investigation of occlusion methods for artificial sphincters is crucial for a reliable and effective design of such devices. The compression induced onto the tissue by a certain pressure depends on the biomechanical and physiological features of the lumen and on the specific occlusion method. A numerical model and an experimental evaluation are presented here to assess the efficiency of different occlusion methods. Numerical models of circumferential occlusion and clamping occlusion methods to simulate the compression of the biological lumen were developed. Results revealed a relationship between the efficiency of the occlusion method and the physiological condition of the lumen. With differences related to the testing setup, this relationship was also confirmed experimentally by conducting tests on biological simulators. We analyzed the occlusion method to adopt as the physiological pressure (ie, leakage pressure values) changed. In particular, we focused on the urinary incontinence, which is a dysfunction involving the external sphincter surrounding the urethra. In this scenario, we demonstrated that a clamping occlusion is an efficient method to compress the urethra, whose physiological pressures range between 4 and 12 kPa. The clamping occlusion method resulted up to 35% more efficient in terms of sealing pressure than the circumferential one for a closing pressure varying between 2.3 and 11.5 kPa.

Electrophysiological Basis of Fecal Incontinence and Its Implications for Treatment

The majority of patients with neuropathic incontinence and other pelvic floor conditions associated with straining at stool have damage to the pudendal nerves distal to the ischial spine. Sacral nerve stimulation appears to be a promising innovation and has been widely adopted and currently considered the standard of care for adults with moderate to severe fecal incontinence and following failed sphincter repair. From a decision-to-treat perspective, the short-term efficacy is good (70%-80%), but the long-term efficacy of sacral nerve stimulation is around 50%. Newer electrophysiological tests and improved anal endosonography would more effectively guide clinical decision making.

Evidence-Based Update on Treatments of Fecal Incontinence in Women

Fecal incontinence is a highly prevalent and distressing condition that has a negative impact on quality of life. The etiology is often multifactorial, and the evaluation and treatment of this condition can be hindered by a lack of understanding of the mechanisms and currently available treatment options. This article reviews the evidence-based update for the management of fecal incontinence.

Current surgical strategies to treat fecal incontinence

Fecal incontinence is a devastating condition, vastly under-reported, and may affect up to 18% of the population. While conservative management may be efficacious in a large portion of patients, those who are refractory will likely benefit from appropriate surgical intervention. There are a wide variety of surgical approaches to fecal incontinence management, and knowledge and experience are crucial to choosing the appropriate procedure and maximizing functional outcome while minimizing risk. In this article, we provide a comprehensive description of surgical options for fecal incontinence to help the clinician identify an appropriate intervention.

Advances in the Surgical Treatment of Fecal Incontinence

Although surgery for fecal incontinence has been shown to be effective, it is still very challenging and sometimes frustrating. Overlapping sphincteroplasty, by far the most common procedure, is effective in patients with sphincter defects; however, recent data suggest that success rates tend to deteriorate over time. A thorough preoperative evaluation incorporates numerous factors, including patient characteristics, severity of incontinence, type and size of the sphincter defect as assessed by physical examination, anal ultrasound, and anorectal physiology studies including anal manometry, electromyography, and pudendal nerve terminal motor latency assessment. The use of these evaluation methods has allowed better patient assignment for a variety of new alternative treatment options. Innovations in the surgical treatment of fecal incontinence range from simple, office-based sphincter augmentation techniques to surgical implantation of mechanical devices. This article reviews 5 alternative surgical treatment options for fecal incontinence: injection of carbon-coated beads in the submucosa of the anal canal, radiofrequency energy delivery, stimulated graciloplasty, artificial bowel sphincter, and sacral nerve stimulation.

Challenges faced in the clinical application of artificial anal sphincters

Fecal incontinence is an unresolved problem, which has a serious effect on patients, both physically and psychologically. For patients with severe symptoms, treatment with an artificial anal sphincter could be a potential option to restore continence. Currently, the Acticon Neosphincter is the only device certified by the US Food and Drug Administration. In this paper, the clinical safety and efficacy of the Acticon Neosphincter are evaluated and discussed. Furthermore, some other key studies on artificial anal sphincters are presented and summarized. In particular, this paper highlights that the crucial problem in this technology is to maintain long-term biomechanical compatibility between implants and surrounding tissues. Compatibility is affected by changes in both the morphology and mechanical properties of the tissues surrounding the implants. A new approach for enhancing the long-term biomechanical compatibility of implantable artificial sphincters is proposed based on the use of smart materials.

Sacral nerve stimulation for faecal incontinence: medium-term follow-up from a single institution

BACKGROUND

Most studies on sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) are either single-centre with small numbers of patients or multi-centre studies. We present the medium-term follow-up results from a single centre for 127 patients undergoing SNS.

METHODS

Consecutive patients treated with SNS for faecal incontinence had preoperative baseline St Mark's continence scores, faecal incontinence quality of life (FIQL) measures and anorectal physiology studies. Follow-up was a postal questionnaire concerning continence, FIQL, patient-perceived change in bowel control (-5 to +5 where 0 is no change), overall satisfaction (0-10 visual analogue scale) and use of medications.

RESULTS

A total of 166 patients underwent temporary nerve stimulation testing, of which 112 progressed to a permanent implantable pulse generator (IPG). Fifteen received an IPG without the testing phase, hence 127 patients in total. Fourteen had the IPG removed, four were deceased, leaving 109 for assessment; 91 (83%) responded to the survey. Mean follow-up was 2.7 years (range: 2 months-8.5 years). Mean baseline St Mark's continence score was 14.4, and mean follow-up score was 10.3 (P < 0.01). FIQL improved in all domains (P < 0.001). Patient-reported improved bowel control mean score was +3.2 (95% CI: 2.9, 3.55). Median satisfaction score was 8.0 (range: 0-10). Complications included 17 lead dislodgements, seven superficial infections, five infections requiring surgery and five repositioning of a rotated IPG. Thirty-two patients used loperamide and 34 used fibre supplements.

CONCLUSION

In this observational study, limited by the absence of a placebo control group, SNS significantly improved continence and quality of life, and patient satisfaction was high.

Outcomes of Reimplantation of the Artificial Bowel Sphincter

BACKGROUND

Outcomes of artificial bowel sphincter reimplantation for severe fecal incontinence remain unknown.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and outcomes of artificial bowel sphincter reimplantation versus implantation.

DESIGN

This was a retrospective review study.

SETTINGS

The study was conducted at a single institution.

PATIENTS

Patients with severe incontinence who underwent de novo implantation and re-implantation between January 1998 and December 2012 were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Complications, length of functional device time, success rates (functioning device at follow-up), patient demographics, comorbidities, etiology of incontinence, operative data, postoperative complications, and outcomes of initial implantation versus reimplantation were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 57 patients (mean age, 49.3 ± 13.5 years; 44 women) underwent implantation. Sixteen (28%) succeeded and 41 (72%) failed, requiring explantation; 17 of 41 patients underwent reimplantation; 5 had 2 reimplantations. There were 79 implantations and 50 explantations (63.3%) in total. Implantation and reimplantation procedures had similar lengths of operation, hospital stay, postoperative complications, and explantation rate. Most common reasons for device explantation were infection/erosion (27/50 (54%)) and malfunction (19/50 (38%)). Reasons for reimplantation included device malfunction/migration (17/22 (77.3%)) and/or infection/erosion (5/22 (22.7%)). Seven (41.2%) of 17 patients for whom reimplantation was attributed to noninfectious reasons had a functioning device, whereas only 1 (20.0%) of 5 who had reimplantation because of infection/erosion had a working device. At a median follow-up of 29.5 months (range, 1.0-215.0 months), 24 patients (42%) retained a functioning device (implantation = 16; reimplantation = 8). Success rates were not significantly different between initial implantation and reimplantation procedures (p = 0.755). There were no differences in the length of functional device time between implanted and reimplanted devices (p = 0.439).

LIMITATIONS

The study was limited by its retrospective nature and small sample size.

CONCLUSIONS

Artificial bowel sphincter implantation has a high failure rate, requiring explantation in 72% of patients in this study. Reimplantation was often possible, with a success rate of 47%. Selected reimplantation for noninfectious complications had better outcomes than did reimplantation for septic causes. Short- and long-term outcomes are comparable to initial implantation.

A novel animal model for external anal sphincter insufficiency

PURPOSE

Reliable animal models are essential to evaluate future therapeutic options like cell-based therapies for external anal sphincter insufficiency. The goal of our study was to describe the most reliable model for external sphincter muscle insufficiency by comparing three different methods to create sphincter muscle damage.

METHODS

In an experimental animal study, female Lewis rats (200-250 g) were randomly assigned to three treatment groups (n = 5, each group). The external sphincter muscle was weakened in the left dorsal quadrant by microsurgical excision, cryosurgery, or electrocoagulation by diathermy. Functional evaluation included in vivo measurements of resting pressure, spontaneous muscle contraction, and contraction in response to electrical stimulation of the afferent nerve at baseline and at 2, 4, and 6 weeks after sphincter injury. Masson's trichrome staining and immunofluorescence for skeletal muscle markers was performed for morphological analysis.

RESULTS

Peak contraction after electrical stimulation was significantly decreased after sphincter injury in all groups. Contraction forces recovered partially after cryosurgery and electrocoagulation but not after microsurgical excision. Morphological analysis revealed an incomplete destruction of the external sphincter muscle in the cryosurgery and electrocoagulation groups compared to the microsurgery group.

CONCLUSIONS

For the first time, three different models of external sphincter muscle insufficiency were directly compared. The animal model using microsurgical sphincter destruction offers the highest level of consistency regarding tissue damage and sphincter insufficiency, and therefore represents the most reliable model to evaluate future therapeutic options. In addition, this study represents a novel model to specifically test the external sphincter muscle function.

ACG clinical guideline: management of benign anorectal disorders

These guidelines summarize the definitions, diagnostic criteria, differential diagnoses, and treatments of a group of benign disorders of anorectal function and/or structure. Disorders of function include defecation disorders, fecal incontinence, and proctalgia syndromes, whereas disorders of structure include anal fissure and hemorrhoids. Each section reviews the definitions, epidemiology and/or pathophysiology, diagnostic assessment, and treatment recommendations of each entity. These recommendations reflect a comprehensive search of all relevant topics of pertinent English language articles in PubMed, Ovid Medline, and the National Library of Medicine from 1966 to 2013 using appropriate terms for each subject. Recommendations for anal fissure and hemorrhoids lean heavily on adaptation from the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons Practice Parameters from the most recent published guidelines in 2010 and 2011 and supplemented with subsequent publications through 2013. We used systematic reviews and meta-analyses when available, and this was supplemented by review of published clinical trials.

A novel artificial anal sphincter system in an in vitro and in vivo experiment

This paper presents some of the latest progress in the development of a novel artificial anal sphincter system (AASS) to treat severe fecal incontinence. We have redesigned and integrated an intelligent, remote-controlled artificial anal sphincter based on biological signal feedback mechanisms. The device consists of an external telemetry unit, an internal artificial anal sphincter (IAAS), and a transcutaneous energy transfer system (TETS). The mechanical medical micropump of the IAAS can realize bidirectional flow with a maximum flow rate of 8.5 ml/min and can build backpressure up to 170 kPa. The design of the prosthesis reduces occlusion pressure and allows for low inflation volumes (9 mL-10.5 mL); operating pressures between 4.05 kPa and 7.16 kPa indicate that the risk of ischemic injury to the bowel is minimal. Furthermore, the rechargeable battery based on TETS puts the operation time at an estimated 2 days. The performance characteristics of the AASS and its efficiency in achieving continence and sensing the stool inside the anorectum were evaluated in vitro and in vivo in a pig model. Experimental results confirm that the system can maintain continence and build the sense of defecation successfully. Moreover, this innovation can be integrated into not only severe fecal incontinence, erectile dysfunction, and therapy-resistant reflux disease, but also morbid adiposity therapeutic AASS applications.

Current status: new technologies for the treatment of patients with fecal incontinence

Fecal incontinence is a frequent and debilitating condition that may result from a multitude of different causes. Treatment is often challenging and needs to be individualized. During the last several years, new technologies have been developed, and others are emerging from clinical trials to commercialization. Although their specific roles in the management of fecal incontinence have not yet been completely defined, surgeons have access to them and patients may request them. The purpose of this project is to put into perspective, for both the patient and the practitioner, the relative positions of new and emerging technologies in order to propose a treatment algorithm.

Feedback control of TET system with variable coupling coefficients for a novel artificial anal sphincter

For treating severe faecal incontinence, the authors developed an intelligent artificial anal sphincter system (AASS) equipped with a feedback sensor that utilized a transcutaneous energy transfer system (TETS). To deliver the correct amount of power (i.e. to match the load demand under variable coupling conditions caused by changes in positioning between the coils due to fitting and changes in posture), a regulating method to stabilize output voltage with a closed loop variable-frequency controller was developed in this paper. The method via which the voltage gain characteristics of a voltage-fed series-tuned TETS were derived is also described. The theoretical analysis was verified by the results of the experiment. A numerical analysis method was used as a control rule with respect to the relationship between operating frequency and output voltage. To validate the feedback control rules, a prototype of the TET charging system was constructed, and its performance was validated with the coupling variation between 0.12-0.42. The results show that the output voltage of the secondary side can be maintained at a constant 7 V across the whole coupling coefficient range, with a switching frequency regulation range of 271.4-320.5 kHz, and the proposed controller has reached a maximal end-to-end power efficiency of 67.5% at 1 W.

Current management of fecal incontinence: Choosing amongst treatment options to optimize outcomes

The severity of fecal incontinence widely varies and can have dramatic devastating impacts on a person’s life. Fecal incontinence is common, though it is often under-reported by patients. In addition to standard treatment options, new treatments have been developed during the past decade to attempt to effectively treat fecal incontinence with minimal morbidity. Non-operative treatments include dietary modifications, medications, and biofeedback therapy. Currently used surgical treatments include repair (sphincteroplasty), stimulation (sacral nerve stimulation or posterior tibial nerve stimulation), replacement (artificial bowel sphincter or muscle transposition) and diversion (stoma formation). Newer augmentation treatments such as radiofrequency energy delivery and injectable materials, are minimally invasive tools that may be good options before proceeding to surgery in some patients with mild fecal incontinence. In general, more invasive surgical treatments are now reserved for moderate to severe fecal incontinence. Functional and quality of life related outcomes, as well as potential complications of the treatment must be considered and the treatment of fecal incontinence must be individualized to the patient. General indications, techniques, and outcomes profiles for the various treatments of fecal incontinence are discussed in detail. Choosing the most effective treatment for the individual patient is essential to achieve optimal outcomes in the treatment of fecal incontinence.

Novel artificial anal sphincter system based on transcutaneous energy transmission system tested in vivo

This paper proposes a novel artificial anal sphincter system (AASS) for severe fecal incontinence. The AASS is composed of an artificial anal sphincter (AAS), an external transcutaneous energy transmission system (TETS), and an external control device. The AAS is composed of a cuff, a micropump, a reservoir, and a remote control device. It is designed to be implanted into the body of the patient. The function of the AAS is to open and close the patient's natural anus. Patients suffering from loss of their natural sphincter lose rectal sensation and are thus unable to perceive imminent fecal incontinence. In order to restore rectal sensation, a pressure sensor in the AAS cuff is designed to detect pressure in the colon. The pressure reflects the present quantity of colon contents, allowing patients to control the AAS to open or close the anus according to the pressure. The TETS is designed to provide electrical energy to the implanted AAS without wire connections. The external control device is designed to receive the pressure information from the AAS and send the patient's command to the implanted device. This paper provides a thorough discussion of the design of the novel AASS and describes the performance of the AASS when tested in vivo on two Beagle dogs who were chosen to be the subjects for receiving the implant. The experimental results verified that the performance of the AASS met the functional requirements it was designed for; however, the trial also revealed some challenges to be further studied.

Care of the patient with anorectal trauma

Blunt and penetrating injuries to the anus and rectum are uncommon. Considerable debate remains regarding the optimal treatment of rectal injuries. Although intraperitoneal rectal injuries can be treated similarly to colonic injuries, treatment options for extraperitoneal injuries include fecal diversion with a colostomy, presacral drainage, repair of the rectal defect, and distal rectal washout. Perineal injuries resulting in anal sphincter disruption often occur with severe associated injuries. Small defects can be repaired primarily, but extensive injuries often require diversion and sphincter reconstruction.

Surgical management of fecal incontinence

The surgical approach to treating fecal incontinence is complex. After optimal medical management has failed, surgery remains the best option for restoring function. Patient factors, such as prior surgery, anatomic derangements, and degree of incontinence, help inform the astute surgeon regarding the most appropriate option. Many varied approaches to surgical management are available, ranging from more conservative approaches, such as anal canal bulking agents and neuromodulation, to more aggressive approaches, including sphincter repair, anal cerclage techniques, and muscle transposition. Efficacy and morbidity of these approaches also range widely, and this article presents the data and operative considerations for these approaches.

Technical and functional results of the artificial bowel sphincter for treatment of severe fecal incontinence: is there any benefit for the patient?

BACKGROUND

Fecal incontinence is a socially devastating problem that can be cured by the artificial bowel sphincter in selected cases.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluates short- and long-term morbidity and functional results of the artificial bowel sphincter.

DESIGN

This study is a retrospective evaluation of consecutive patients.

SETTINGS

This study was conducted at 2 academic colorectal units.

PATIENTS

Between May 2003 and July 2010, all consecutive patients who underwent artificial bowel sphincter implantation for severe fecal incontinence were included in the study.

INTERVENTION

The artificial bowel sphincter was implanted through 2 incisions made in the perineum and suprapubic area.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Patients were reviewed at months 1, 6, and 12, and then annually. Mortality, morbidity (early infection within the first 30 days after implant, and late thereafter), and reoperations including explantations were analyzed. Anal continence was evaluated by means of the Cleveland Clinic Florida score. Mean follow-up was 38 months (range, 12-98).

RESULTS

Between May 2003 and July 2010, 21 consecutive patients with a mean age of 51 years (range, 23-71) underwent surgery. There was no mortality. All patients presented with at least 1 complication. Infection or cutaneous ulceration occurred in 76% of patients, perineal pain in 29%, and rectal evacuation disorders in 38%. The artificial bowel sphincter was definitely explanted from 17 patients (81%). The artificial sphincter was able to be activated in 17 patients (81%), and continence was satisfactory at 1 year in those who still had their sphincter in place (n = 12).

CONCLUSION

There is a very high rate of morbidity and explantation after implantation of an artificial bowel sphincter for fecal incontinence. Four of 21 patients who still had an artificial sphincter in place had satisfactory continence at a mean follow-up of 38 months.

[Treatment of sphincter insufficiency]

Surgical therapy of anal sphincter insufficiency is only indicated if it leads to symptoms and conservative treatment fails to achieve adequate symptom relief. Various new surgical options have evolved over the last decade but evidence of the efficacy varies substantially. Some have gained broader clinical acceptance based on the efficacy, ease of applicability and low risk profile. The paper aims to outline the currently commonly accepted and frequently applied surgical techniques for the treatment of anal sphincter insufficiency and the results, put these into the context of a treatment algorithm and to present novel techniques which carry potential for the future.

Long-term outcomes of sacral nerve stimulation for fecal incontinence

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

In patients with fecal incontinence who do not benefit from medical or behavioral treatments sacral nerve stimulation is now considered a first-line procedure. Although the efficacy of treatment appears to be sustained in the short and medium term, the long-term results of therapy are relatively unknown.

OBJECTIVE

We report the results of chronic sacral nerve stimulation in patients who have had more than 8 years of therapy.

DESIGN AND SETTINGS

All patients who underwent sacral nerve stimulation for fecal incontinence from 1996 to 2002 were followed up prospectively. Data were collected prospectively by the use of bowel habit diaries and St Mark's continence scores. Treatment success was defined as >50% reduction in episodes of fecal incontinence with sacral nerve stimulation in comparison with baseline symptoms.

RESULTS

Between January 1996 and December 2002, 25 patients (male/female 2:23; median age, 54 years (range, 35-68 years) underwent temporary sacral nerve stimulation. Twenty-three (92%) patients had a greater than 50% improvement in their ability to defer defecation during the trial phase and were considered suitable for chronic stimulation. Over a median follow-up of 114 months (range, 96-164 months), full continence was maintained in 12 (48%) of the 23 patients who received a neurostimulator implant. Two patients lost efficacy at 48 and 60 months after permanent implant for unknown reasons and had the device removed. Three patients died at 3, 8, and 9 years after permanent implant because of unrelated comorbidities. Nine patients required a change of battery at a mean (SD) of 87 (13.5) months.

CONCLUSIONS

Sacral nerve stimulation can maintain a persistent clinical benefit in the long term for the majority of patients. Some patients will experience deterioration in their symptoms over time, for reasons yet unknown.

Overlapping sphincter repair: does age matter?

BACKGROUND

The predictors of the outcomes following anal sphincteroplasty have not been well documented.

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to evaluate age as a predictor of functional outcome and quality of life after overlapping sphincter repair.

DESIGN

This study is a retrospective review of chart review followed by a prospective evaluation by the use of validated questionnaires.

SETTINGS

Patients were assigned to group A (≤ 60 years old) or group B (>60 years).

PATIENTS

Included were patients with obstetric sphincter injuries who underwent overlapping sphincteroplasty between 1996 and 2007.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life Scale, Fecal Incontinence Severity Index, the Cleveland Global Quality of Life scale, and a patient satisfaction questionnaire were used to assess outcome.

RESULTS

Three hundred twenty-one women underwent sphincteroplasty and 197 responded to this study, 146 (74.1%) patients in group A and 51 (25.9%) patients in group B. Median follow-up was 7.7 years (range, 4.7-10.0). The mean overall Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life Scale was 11.0 ± 3.5. Median Fecal Incontinence Severity Index score was 29.8 ± 15.9. Mean Cleveland Global Quality of Life scale was 0.7 ± 0.2. The 2 groups were comparable for BMI (p = 1.0), ethnic background (p = 0.8), smoking (p = 0.8), and follow-up duration (p = 0.9). Intergroup comparison showed no significant difference in the Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life Scale scores (p = 0.5) in all subscales: lifestyle (p = 0.8), coping behavior (p = 0.5), depression and self-perception (p = 0.2), and embarrassment (p = 0.1). No significant differences were noted in Fecal Incontinence Severity Index (p = 0.2), Cleveland Global Quality of Life scale (p =1.0), or postoperative satisfaction (p = 0.6).

LIMITATIONS

The study was limited by its retrospective nature.

CONCLUSIONS

Comparable long-term Fecal Incontinence Severity Index score and Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life Scale scores following overlapping sphincter repair suggest that age is not a predictor of outcome for overlapping sphincter repair. This procedure can be offered to both young and older patients.

The artificial bowel sphincter: a single institution experience over a decade

OBJECTIVE

A report on the long-term results of a consecutive series of patients implanted with the Acticon Neosphincter.

METHOD

Data were reviewed from a prospective database. From May 1996 to Jan 2010, 52 patients (46 women), mean age 51.5 ± 14.8 years, with severe fecal incontinence for a mean of 10.6 ± 10.5 years, were implanted with 85 devices. All patients had failed conservative management, including 13 with unsuccessful prior surgical treatments. Indications for implantation were sphincter destruction (45), pudendal neuropathy (12), congenital malformation (7), and perineal colostomy (4). Preoperative assessment included anal endosonography, anorectal manometry, and electrophysiologic testing. Incontinence (Wexner) and Quality of Life scores were recorded prior to the procedure and at each follow-up visit, together with annual anal physiology assessments. Cumulative risks of device revision and explantation were evaluated using Kaplan-Meier survival curves.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up was 64.3 ± 46.5 months (range, 2-169); 26 patients (50%) required revisions after a mean of 57.7 ± 35.0 months, with 73.1% due to a leaking cuff from a microperforation; 14 patients (26.9%) required definitive explantation after a mean of 14.6 ± 7.9 months, with the majority (42.9%) due to infection; and 9 patients were lost to follow-up. In 35 patients (67.3%) with an activated device, there were significant improvements in both median Wexner (P < 0.0001) and Quality-of-life scores (P = 0.0286). There was a significant difference between preoperative resting anal pressures and closed pressures at activation (P < 0.0001) and latest follow-up (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

With careful patient selection, meticulous surgical technique, and dedicated surveillance, favorable long-term results can be achieved with acceptable rates of revision and explantation.

Intra-abdominal dilation of artificial bowel sphincter pressure-regulating balloon: a case report

INTRODUCTION

Fecal incontinence is a debilitating condition with considerable impact on quality of life. The artificial bowel sphincter may be used as a treatment option in severe cases in which no less invasive form of therapy is sufficient.

RESULTS

Risk of infection and mechanical failure is of particular concern in this artificial device.

CONCLUSION

We report a rare late complication: balloon dilation due to hypertonic fillings.

Sacral nerve stimulation for faecal incontinence: results from a single centre over a 10-year period

AIM

Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) is considered a first-line surgical treatment option for faecal incontinence. There is little information on long-term results. The results of SNS for faecal incontinence performed at a single centre over a 10-year period are reported.

METHOD

A cohort analysis of consecutive patients treated with SNS for faecal incontinence over a 10-year period was carried out. Data were collected prospectively using bowel habit diaries and St Mark's and Cleveland Clinic incontinence scores. Treatment success was defined as a >50% reduction in episodes of faecal incontinence compared with baseline.

RESULTS

Temporary SNS was performed in 118 patients, and 91 (77%) were considered suitable for chronic stimulation. The median period of follow up was 22 (1-138) months. Seventy patients were followed for 1 year with success in 63 (90%). Of 18 patients followed for 5 years, 15 (83%) reported continued success, 11 (61%) maintained full efficacy, 4 (22%) reported some loss, and 3 (17%) reported complete loss. Three patients with a 10-year follow up had no loss in efficacy. Overall, complete loss of efficacy was observed in 14 (16%) patients at a median of 11.5 months following implantation. A further 5 (6%) patients showed deterioration with time. In 9 (47%), no reason for the deterioration in symptoms could be identified.

CONCLUSIONS

SNS can be effective for up to 10 years. Some patients experience deterioration in symptoms over time. The reasons for this are often not evident.

The magnetic anal sphincter versus the artificial bowel sphincter: a comparison of 2 treatments for fecal incontinence

BACKGROUND

Fecal incontinence is a debilitating ailment, and surgery offers the only recourse for the patients in whom conservative treatment fails.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to report the first matched comparison between patients implanted with the magnetic anal sphincter and the artificial bowel sphincter.

PATIENTS AND INTERVENTIONS

From December 2008 to June 2010, 10 female patients, median age 64.5 years (range, 42-76), with severe fecal incontinence for a median of 7.5 years (range, 1-40), were implanted with the magnetic anal sphincter. Ten female patients implanted with the artificial bowel sphincter were identified. Both groups were matched for age, etiology, duration of incontinence, and preoperative functional scores.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Outcomes measures included length of hospitalization, complications, and changes in functional scores (anorectal physiology, incontinence, and quality of life).

RESULTS

Patients with the magnetic anal sphincter had a shorter median operative time (62 vs 97.5 min, P = .0273), length of hospitalization(4.5 vs 10 days, P < .001), and follow-up duration (8 vs 22.5 mo, P = .0068), without a statistically significant difference in 30-day complications (4 vs 2, P = .628) and revision/explantation (1 vs 4, P = .830). Both groups achieved significant improvements in preoperative incontinence (P < .0002) and quality-of-life scores (P < .009). In a comparison of baseline resting anal pressures, patients with the artificial bowel sphincter had significantly higher pressures with the cuff inflated (P = .0082), and those with the magnetic anal sphincter had a significant increase as well (P = .0469). At the latest review, both groups had similar quality-of-life scores (P = .374); patients with the artificial bowel sphincter had higher (median) closed-cuff anal pressures compared with the anal resting pressure of those with a magnetic anal sphincter (89 vs 58.5 cmH2O, P = .0147), together with more constipation (4 vs 1, P = .830) and a trend toward better incontinence scores (P = .0625).

LIMITATIONS

This was a nonrandomized study with small patient numbers.

CONCLUSION

In the short term, the magnetic anal sphincter is as effective as the artificial bowel sphincter in restoring continence and quality of life.

Artificial anal sphincter for severe fecal incontinence implanted by a transvaginal approach: experience with 32 patients treated at one institution

PURPOSE

Our aim was to evaluate medium-term results of transvaginal implantation of an artificial anal sphincter in a large series of patients.

METHODS

Women undergoing treatment for severe fecal incontinence at Rouen University Hospital, Rouen, France, from January 2003 through December 2007 were eligible for the study if the fecal incontinence had lasted for 6 months and if they had attempted other therapies without success. All patients received implantation of an artificial anal sphincter via a transvaginal approach. Incontinence was assessed with the Cleveland Clinic Florida Fecal Incontinence Scale (Wexner score).

RESULTS

A total of 32 women entered the study. Their median age was 63 (range, 26-79) years. At entry, 20 (63%) had severe destruction and scarring of the perineum, which was a contraindication for implantation via a perineal approach. Nine patients (28.1%) had previously undergone implantation of an AAS which had been removed because of complications, and 5 had had a Pickrell procedure for anal agenesia. No deaths occurred during the study. The device was removed in a total of 9 patients (28.1%): in 7 because of septic adverse events within the first 6 months after the operation, in 1 because of poor function, and in 1 for psychological reasons despite good functional results. Implantation was successful in 23 patients (71.9%), and the device remained activated for a mean follow-up of 41 (range, 18-75) months, with a mean decrease in Cleveland Clinic incontinence score from 18.4 to 6.8 (P < .0001). None of the patients complained of dyspareunia.

CONCLUSIONS

The transvaginal approach for implantation of an artificial anal sphincter permits treatment of women with fecal incontinence who have severe damage and scarring of the anterior perineum. This route provides an alternative for patients whose only therapeutic option would previously have been a defunctioning stoma.

Sacral nerve stimulation for the treatment of faecal incontinence related to dysfunction of the internal anal sphincter

PURPOSE

In patients with faecal incontinence related to isolated internal anal sphincter (IAS) disruption, conservative management is the mainstay of treatment. Surgical repair of the internal sphincter is not successful. This study evaluated the use of sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) in those with faecal incontinence and IAS disruption in whom medical and behavioural treatments had failed.

METHODS

Nine patients (seven women, median age 44 years, range 39-62 years), with a history of obstetric or iatrogenic anal sphincter trauma, underwent a trial of SNS. All had passive faecal incontinence, low resting anal sphincter pressure and full thickness IAS muscle disruption of greater than 30 degrees radial extent. The effect of SNS on symptoms was measured by a bowel habit diary and validated questionnaires used to assess impact on quality of life.

RESULTS

Eight (89%) patients benefited from temporary stimulation and proceeded to permanent device implantation. Follow-up was at a mean of 46 months (range 2-81). Faecal incontinence decreased from a mean (SD) of 9.9 (10.9) to 1.0 (2.4) episodes per week (p = 0.031), and soiling decreased from 6.1 (1.6) to 1.7 (2.4) episodes per week (p = 0.031), with chronic stimulation. At latest follow-up, three patients had no incontinence, three patients had episodes of minor soiling only, one patient had >75% reduction of incontinent episodes, and two patients remained incontinent.

CONCLUSIONS

Sacral nerve stimulation is effective in treating faecal incontinence related to a structurally and functionally abnormal internal anal sphincter. Treatment should not be refused on the basis of IAS disruption.

Sacral nerve stimulation induces changes in the pelvic floor and rectum that improve continence and quality of life

PURPOSE

Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) can improve fecal incontinence, though the exact mechanism is not known. This study examines the following hypotheses: SNS leads to contraction of the pelvic floor, influences rectal perception, and improves continence and quality of life.

METHODS

Fourteen patients with sacral nerve stimulators implanted for fecal incontinence were examined prospectively. Morphological and functional assessment was done by endosonography, manometry, and volumetry with the stimulator turned on and off in direct succession. Questionnaires were used to determine incontinence and quality of life.

RESULTS

With the stimulator turned on, rectal filling conditions were perceived only at higher volumes; in particular, the defecation urge was sensed only at higher volumes. There was also a reduction in the diameters of the external and internal anal sphincters and a decrease in the distance between the anal mucosa and the symphysis as a sign of pelvic floor elevation. Six months after surgery, continence and quality of life were markedly better than before the operation.

CONCLUSIONS

We were able to confirm the hypotheses given above. The improvements of pelvic floor contraction and rectal perception are rapid adjustment processes in response to stimulation of sacral nerves S3/S4 when turning on the stimulator.

Sacral nerve stimulation for fecal incontinence: results of a 120-patient prospective multicenter study

BACKGROUND

Sacral nerve stimulation has been approved for use in treating urinary incontinence in the United States since 1997, and in Europe for both urinary and fecal incontinence (FI) since 1994. The purpose of this study was to determine the safety and efficacy of sacral nerve stimulation in a large population under the rigors of Food and Drug Administration-approved investigational protocol.

METHODS

Candidates for SNS who provided informed consent were enrolled in this Institutional Review Board-approved multicentered prospective trial. Patients showing > or =50% improvement during test stimulation received chronic implantation of the InterStim Therapy (Medtronic; Minneapolis, MN). The primary efficacy objective was to demonstrate that > or =50% of subjects would achieve therapeutic success, defined as > or =50% reduction of incontinent episodes per week at 12 months compared with baseline.

RESULTS

A total of 133 patients underwent test stimulation with a 90% success rate, and 120 (110 females) of a mean age of 60.5 years and a mean duration of FI of 6.8 years received chronic implantation. Mean follow-up was 28 (range, 2.2-69.5) months. At 12 months, 83% of subjects achieved therapeutic success (95% confidence interval: 74%-90%; P < 0.0001), and 41% achieved 100% continence. Therapeutic success was 85% at 24 months. Incontinent episodes decreased from a mean of 9.4 per week at baseline to 1.9 at 12 months and 2.9 at 2 years. There were no reported unanticipated adverse device effects associated with InterStim Therapy.

CONCLUSION

Sacral nerve stimulation using InterStim Therapy is a safe and effective treatment for patients with FI.

The effects of biofeedback training of pelvic floor muscles on fecal incontinence

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to discuss the effect of pelvic floor muscle training on fecal incontinence.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed on patients who received pelvic floor muscle training from March 2002 to April 2007. There were 55 patients with fecal incontinence (male, 32 cases; female, 23 cases; mean age, 9.4 years old from 6 to 14), including 39 cases of anorectal malformation and 16 cases of Hirschsprung's disease. Pelvic floor muscle training was performed using biofeedback for 2 weeks in hospital, 2 times each day, and 30 minutes each time. The patients were then instructed to carry out self-training at home without the biofeedback device daily and received training evaluations in the hospital outpatient department monthly. All patients completed the training regimen and were followed up for 1 year. Anal manometry and clinical score were evaluated before and after training.

RESULTS

Anal continence of 30 patients had satisfactory improvement, but not for the other 25 cases after training. The mean anal squeeze pressures of the group that had good results and the group that had poor results were 98.4 +/- 7.3 and 47.4 +/- 13.6 mm Hg, respectively, before training. There were 31 patients whose anal squeeze pressures were above 80 mm Hg, and 26 of these had satisfactory anal continence improvement, including all patients with Hirschsprung's disease. On the contrary, only 4 of 24 cases whose anal squeeze pressure was below 80 mm Hg acquired satisfactory anal continence improvement.

CONCLUSIONS

Pelvic floor muscle training could achieve good results in some patients with fecal incontinence. Baseline measurements during anorectal manometry appear to provide good prediction of prognosis and effective management.

Function and dysfunction of the colon and anorectum in adults: working team report of the Swedish Motility Group (SMoG)

Symptoms of fecal incontinence and constipation are common in the general population. These can, however, be unreliably reported and are poorly discriminatory for underlying pathophysiology. Furthermore, both symptoms may coexist. In the elderly, fecal impaction always must be excluded. For patients with constipation, colon transit studies, anorectal manometry and defecography may help to identify patients with slow-transit constipation and/or pelvic floor dysfunction. The best documented medical treatments for constipation are the macrogols, lactulose and isphagula. Evolving drugs include lubiprostone, which enhances colonic secretion by activating chloride channels. Surgery is restricted for a highly selected group of patients with severe slow-transit constipation and for those with large rectoceles that demonstrably cause rectal evacuatory impairment. For patients with fecal incontinence that does not resolve on antidiarrheal treatment, functional and structural evaluation with anorectal manometry and endoanal ultrasound or magnetic resonance (MR) of the anal canal may help to guide management. Sacral nerve stimulation is a rapidly evolving alternative when other treatments such as biofeedback and direct sphincter repair have failed. Advances in understanding the pathophysiology as a guide to treatment of patients with constipation and fecal incontinence is a continuing important goal for translational research. The content of this article is a summary of presentations given by the authors at the Fourth Meeting of the Swedish Motility Group, held in Gothenburg in April 2007.

Long-term results of artificial bowel sphincter for the treatment of severe faecal incontinence. Are they what we hoped for?

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluates the long-term morbidity, functional results and quality of life (QOL) after treatment of severe faecal incontinence (FI) with the Acticon Neosphincter (American Medical Systems, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA).

METHOD

Between 1996 and 2002, 17 consecutive patients (14 female, 3 male; median age 46) underwent sphincter implantation. Clinical evaluation, incontinence severity and QOL were assessed. Anorectal manometry, endoanal ultrasound and pudendal nerve latency were performed preoperatively and at several stages of follow-up. The study was completed in December 2007.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up was 68 months (range: 3-133). Morbidity occurred in 100% of patients from which 65% required at least one re-operation. After the first implant, 11 devices had to be removed (65%). Seven patients had a new implant. At the final stage, Acticon was activated in 9 cases (53%). Severity of FI improved from a median of 17.5 preoperatively to 9 (P = 0.005), 5.5 (P = 0.005) and 10 (P = 0.092) at 6, 12 months and at the end of follow-up, respectively. There was a significant improvement in QOL in all postoperative controls (P < 0.05). Severity of FI did not show a correlation with QOL in the preoperative period, but did at 6, 12 months and at the end of follow-up. Mean maximum resting pressure significantly increased with the full anal cuff.

CONCLUSION

There is a high rate of morbidity, surgical re-interventions and explants after Acticon implant. Patients should be clearly informed about this before surgery. However, patients who have not had Acticon Neosphincter explanted, experience a significant improvement in anal continence and QOL.

Factors associated with failure of the artificial bowel sphincter: a study of over 50 cases from Cleveland Clinic Florida

PURPOSE

This study investigated the risk factors related to artificial bowel sphincter infection, complications, and failure.

METHOD

Complications may occur at any time after artificial bowel sphincter implantation. Early-stage complication is defined as any complications that occurred before artificial bowel sphincter activation, whereas late-stage complications are defined as any complications that occurred after device activation. Assessment of the outcomes of all artificial bowel sphincter operations included evaluation of factors related to patient demographics, operative procedures, and postoperative events.

RESULT

From January 1998 to May 2007, 51 artificial bowel sphincter implantations were performed in 47 patients (43; 84.3% female) with a mean age of 48.8 +/- 12.5 (range, 19-79) years and a mean incontinence score of 18 +/- 1.4 (range, 0-20). In 24 patients (54.5%), the etiology of incontinence was secondary to imperforate anus; 15 (24.2%) patients had obstetric injury or anorectal trauma. Twenty-three (41.2%) artificial bowel sphincter implantations became infected, 18 (35.3%) of which developed early-stage infection, whereas 5 (5.9%) had late-stage infection. One patient in the latter group had associated erosion, and two patient had fistula formation. Late-stage complications continued to increase with time. Multivariate analysis revealed that the time between artificial bowel sphincter implantation and first bowel movement and a history of perineal sepsis were independent risk factors for early-stage artificial bowel sphincter infection.

CONCLUSION

The time from implantation to first bowel movement and history of perineal infection were risk factors for early-stage artificial bowel sphincter infection and failure. Late-stage failures were more often the result of device malfunction and indicated the need for mechanical refinement.

Constipation in 44 patients implanted with an artificial bowel sphincter

PURPOSE

Constipation with or without obstructed defecation (OD) is frequent in patients with artificial bowel sphincter (ABS). The aims of this study were (1) to evaluate the functional outcome of ABS based on postoperative constipation and (2) to assess pre-implantation data to predict post-implantation constipation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirteen men and 31 women were followed up. Both fecal incontinence and constipation with and without OD were assessed after implantation. Pre-implantation characteristics were compared in patients with and without postoperative constipation.

RESULTS

After implantation, nine patients (20.4%) had constipation without OD, 16 patients (36.4%) had OD, and 19 patients (43.2%) had neither of these. Incontinence was significantly more frequent in patients with postoperative constipation with or without OD. In these patients, an increase in preoperative constipation, anismus, and ultraslow waves was noted.

CONCLUSION

Constipation with and without OD is frequent after implantation and interfere with the functional outcome of ABS.

Value of sacral nerve stimulation in the treatment of severe faecal incontinence: a comparison to the artificial bowel sphincter

OBJECTIVE

Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) is a recent treatment option in the management of severe faecal incontinence (FI) that offers promising results. The aim of this study was to compare SNS to artificial bowel sphincter (ABS) implanted patients to assess the rationale of this approach in achieving satisfying functional results and improved quality of life (QoL).

METHOD

Among 27 patients tested (December 2001 and April 2004), 15 patients were successfully managed with SNS. They were compared to 15 matched patients implanted with ABS in a previous period (control group). Assessment of continence level (Cleveland Clinic score), constipation score (Knowles, Eccersley, Scott Score) and QoL (Short-Form 36) were prospectively collected.

RESULTS

Both groups were comparable for clinical parameters (age, gender, anal testing and aetiology of incontinence) and anal physiology. The mean postoperative continence score was significantly higher in the SNS group [9.4 (+/-3.3) vs 5.7 (+/-3.9), P < 0.01]; however, the mean constipation score was higher in the ABS group (6.3 +/- 6.3 vs 12.8 +/- 5.7, P < 0.01). The mean QoL score was similar in both groups. The mean follow-up after implantation was 15 (+/-9) months in the SNS group, and 43 (+/-33) months in the ABS group.

CONCLUSION

In this study, SNS offers satisfying results in terms of QoL, similar to that of ABS. Although it seems to be less effective in restoring continence level, symptoms of outlet obstruction are more frequent after ABS. This SNS approach should be proposed as a first-line treatment of FI in selected patients. ABS should remain an option that can improve function.