Anal incontinence after obstetric sphincter tears: outcome of anatomic primary repairs

Decreasing the incidence of anal sphincter tears in instrumental delivery in Hudiksvall, Sweden

PURPOSE

The primary aim of this study was to observe the change in obstetric anal sphincter tear rates in instrumental deliveries during one decade. Secondly, the changes in non-instrumental deliveries were followed.

METHODS

Data from all deliveries at Hudiksvall Hospital, Sweden 2010-2011 and 2016-2017 were collected. The change of OASIS rate during instrumental deliveries was the most important. Statistical significances were calculated by using chi-square test, test for relative proportions, and Students t-test, where appropriate.

RESULTS

The total incidence of OASIS decreased significantly (from 2.54% to 0.73%, p < .001). Even the OASIS rate in instrumental deliveries decreased substantially from 15.1% to 3.0% (p = .002) but the decrease was statistically insignificant in spontaneous deliveries (from 1.22% to 0.60%, p = .065).

CONCLUSION

Based on the results of our study the manual protection of the perineum reduces the risk of OASIS in instrumental delivery significantly.

Management of obstetrical injuries to the anal sphincter: A survey of French current practice and perceptions according to the specialties

AIM OF THE STUDY

To conduct a survey of current practice in the management of obstetrical anal sphincter injuries (OASI) and to compare short, medium and long-term practices according to the specialty of the surgeon.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A 50-item questionnaire was addressed by mail to various specialists via the national learned societies. The questionnaire was addressed only to practitioners who currently managed OASI in their practice.

RESULTS

Of the 135 healthcare professionals who responded, 57 were sub-specialists in ano-rectal surgery (42.2%) and 78 were obstetrical or gynecological specialists (OB-GYN) (57.8%). Management in the acute period after OASI was similar among the specialties and 50% of the practitioners did not perform suture repair of the internal sphincter. Furthermore, few gynecological specialists recommended systematic consultation with an ano-rectal specialist during acute management. In the medium term, ano-rectal specialists were more likely to explore gastro-intestinal symptoms, either clinically or through para-clinical studies. However, these studies did not systematically lead to interventional management in the absence of consensus, particularly for medium-term sphincter repair. In addition, 25% of practitioners recommended that patients undergo systematic delivery by caesarean section for further pregnancies after OASI. In the long term (>12 months), there were substantial differences in management of OASI not only between specialties but also within the same specialty.

CONCLUSION

The various specialists should coordinate to propose multidisciplinary recommendations on the management of OASI.

Risk of obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) and anal incontinence: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) are the commonest cause of anal incontinence in women of reproductive age. We determined the risk of anal sphincter defects diagnosed by ultrasound, and the risk of anal incontinence in (i) all women who deliver vaginally, (ii) in women without clinical suspicion of OASIS, and (iii) after primary repair of sphincter injury, by systematic review.

METHODS

We searched major databases until June 2018, without language restrictions. Random effects meta-analysis was used to obtain pooled estimates of ultrasound diagnosed OASIS and risk of anal incontinence symptoms at various time points after delivery, and of persistent sphincter defects after primary repair. We reported the association between ultrasound diagnosed OASIS and anal incontinence symptoms using relative risk (RR) with 95 % CI.

RESULTS

We included 103 studies involving 16,110 women. Of all women who delivered vaginally, OASIS were diagnosed on ultrasound in 26 % (95 %CI, 21-30, I² = 91 %), and 19 % experienced anal incontinence (95 %CI, 14-25, I² = 92 %). In women without clinical suspicion of OASIS (n = 3688), sphincter defects were observed in 13 % (10-17, I² = 89 %) and anal incontinence experienced by 14 % (95 % CI: 6-24, I² = 95 %). Following primary repair of OASIS, 55 % (46-63, I² = 98 %) of 7549 women had persistent sphincter defect with 38 % experiencing anal incontinence (33-43, I² = 92 %). There was a significant association between ultrasound diagnosed OASIS and anal incontinence (RR 3.74, 2.17-6.45, I² = 98 %).

INTERPRETATION

Women and clinicians should be aware of the high risk for sphincter defects following vaginal delivery even when clinically unsuspected. This underlines the need of careful and systematic perineal assessment after birth to mitigate the risk of missing OASIS. We also noted a high rate of persistent defects and symptoms following primary repair of OASIS. This dictates the need for provision of robust training for clinicians to achieve proficiency and sustain competency in repairing OASIS.

Delivery after an obstetric anal sphincter tear

Purpose

The present study aimed to assess the risk of obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) of a subsequent delivery after the previous OASIS in countries with low (Finland) and high rates (Norway and Sweden) of OASIS.

Methods

This population-based case–control study included women who experienced OASIS 1997–2002. 26,598 women with OASIS were included from countries with low (Finland) and high (Norway and Sweden) OASIS incidences. Each case was matched with one background-adjusted control without OASIS. A follow-up data, including all subsequent deliveries between 1998 and 2011 were then collected. Statistics significances were calculated using chi-square test, test for relative proportions and Students t test, where appropriate.

Results

OASIS in the first birth was associated with increased recurrences in subsequent births, 6.9% vs. 1.7% in Norway (p < 0.001); 4.5% vs. 0.7 (p < 0.001) in Sweden; and 2.1% vs. 0.8% in Finland (p = 0.038). In Norway, more than two deliveries occurred in 4.8% of cases and 6.2% of controls (p = 0.001), 4.2% vs. 5.1% in Sweden (p < 0.001), and 5.7% vs. 6.3% in Finland (p = 0.572). For women with OASIS in a previous delivery, the rates of cesarean deliveries in subsequent pregnancies were 16.4% (7.9% for controls) in Norway, and 16.3% (6.0% for controls) in Sweden, and 50.2% (14.2% for controls) in Finland. In all countries, the differences between cases and controls were significant (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Next deliveries after OASIS are associated with increased frequency of new OASIS, more cesarean deliveries, and less subsequent deliveries in the high-risk population than women without previous OASIS.

Internal anal sphincter injury in the immediate postpartum period; Prevalence, risk factors and diagnostic methods in the Swedish perineal laceration registry

Risk factors for obstetric external anal sphincter injury are well known. Maternal and obstetric risk factors for internal anal sphincter injury are not extensively studied. The rationale of this study was to evaluate the proportion of internal anal sphincter injury in women with external anal sphincter injury, diagnosed immediately after delivery. This study will assess whether there are additional risks for obstetric internal anal sphincter injury.

OBJECTIVES

The primary aim was to assess the proportion of internal anal sphincter injury immediately in women with an external sphincter injury and to evaluate maternal and obstetric risk factors for internal anal sphincter injury in women with an external anal sphincter injury only. A secondary aim was to relate the diagnostic methods used for obstetric perineal lacerations to the presence of an internal anal sphincter injury.

STUDY DESIGN

A registry study with data from the Swedish Perineal Laceration Registry 2014-2018. From the registry, the maternal and obstetric characteristics of 3,333 primiparous women with isolated external (N = 2,236) versus both external and internal (N = 1,097) anal sphincter injuries were studied, as were the methods used for examining the obstetric anal sphincter injuries.

RESULTS

In 32.9 % (1,097/3,333) of primiparous women with an external anal sphincter injury, an internal anal sphincter injury was diagnosed immediately after delivery. A perineal palpatory thickness of less than 10 mm was a diagnostic sign for internal sphincter injury. Well-known risk factors associated with obstetric anal sphincter injuries could not be confirmed as independent risk factors for internal sphincter injury. When the infant is born with an arm beside the head, there is an almost two-fold increased risk for internal sphincter injury.

CONCLUSIONS

Our main finding is that 32.9 % of women with external anal sphincter injury also have an internal anal sphincter injury. A palpable perineal thickness of less than 10 mm, a degree 4-laceration and an infant born with a hand by the head increases the risk of internal sphincter injury and should be a clinical warning sign.

Long-term outcome of sphincteroplasty with separate suturing of the internal and the external anal sphincter

Background

Sphincteroplasty is one of the treatment options for anal incontinence following obstetric injury. The aim of the study was to evaluate the long-term effect of sphincteroplasty with separate suturing of the internal and the external anal sphincter on anal continence.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on women who had sphincteroplasty for treatment of anal incontinence following obstetric injury. Women operated between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2014 at Sykehuset Innlandet Hospital Trust Hamar, were invited to answer a questionnaire and participate in a clinical examination, including endoanal sonography.

Results

111 (86.7%) women participated. Median postoperative follow-up was 44.5 months, and 63.8% of the participants experienced an improvement of at least three points in the St. Mark’s incontinence score. Fecal urgency and daily fecal leakage persisted in 39.4% and 6.4% of the participants, respectively. The internal anal sphincter improvement persisted in 61.8% of the participants, and there was a median reduction of their St. Mark’s score of 6.0 points between the preoperative value and the value at long-term follow-up. There was no significant change in the St. Mark’s score of patients with persistent dehiscence of the internal anal sphincter.

Conclusions

Sphincteroplasty, with separate suturing of the internal sphincter resulted in continence for stool maintained for at least 3 years in the majority of the patients, while there was an improvement in continence in nearly two-thirds.

Incidence of obstetric anal sphincter injuries after implementing the Triepi-45 tool to improve episiotomy angle in instrumental deliveries

OBJECTIVE

To assess the impact of Triepi-45-a tool that enables an episiotomy angle of 45° to be marked on the perineum at rest-on the incidence of obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) during operative vaginal delivery (OVD).

METHOD

A retrospective-prospective cohort study was performed among successive women who underwent OVD at Complejo Asistencial Universitario de de León, Spain, between 2011 and 2013 (preintervention cohort, n=986) and between 2014 and 2016 (intervention cohort, n=986) after implementation of an interventional programme in 2013 to improve the episiotomy angle, including use of Triepi-45, in OVD.

RESULTS

The intervention cohort had a lower incidence of OASIS than the preintervention cohort (70/986 [7.1%] vs 93/986 [9.4%]), but the difference was not significant, owing to the low use of Triepi-45 in the intervention cohort (n=375). However, the OASIS incidence was significantly lower in the Triepi-45 cohort than in the preintervention cohort (18/375 [4.8%] vs 93/986 [9.4%]; odds ratio, 0.47; 95% confidence interval, 0.26-0.86).

CONCLUSION

Use of Triepi-45 had a positive impact on reducing OASIS in OVD. It remains essential to raise obstetricians' awareness of the importance of the episiotomy angle and to implement the systematic use of tools to reduce the incidence of OASIS.

Incidence of Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injuries After Training to Protect the Perineum

OBJECTIVES

Obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASISs) are a devastating postpartum complication; reducing rates is paramount to improving quality of care. In Norway, implementation of a perineal protection program decreased the incidence of OASIS by 48%. We sought to assess impact on OASIS rates following a similar program.

METHODS

This institutional review board-approved, retrospective cohort study was performed in an academic hospital system. The periods of analysis were November 2014 through October 2015 for the preintervention arm and November 2015 through October 2016 for the postintervention arm. From November 2 to 6, 2015, 2 Norwegian experts conducted a didactic and hands-on, on-site workshop focusing on perineal protection. The experts were then present on labor and delivery wards to reinforce perineal protection in live deliveries. Teachings were emphasized at departmental meetings for the remainder of the year. Data were extracted from electronic medical records and manually audited.

RESULTS

The rate of vaginal delivery was similar among both periods (6504 and 6650; P = 0.059). Obstetric anal sphincter injury rates decreased from 211 (3.2%) preintervention to 189 (2.8%) after the workshop. Although this represented 32 fewer injuries, it was not statistically significant (P = 0.179). Obstetric anal sphincter injuries following forceps-assisted deliveries did decline significantly from 103 (28%) to 81 (21%) (P = 0.014). In addition, incidence of fourth-degree lacerations during resident deliveries decreased significantly from 10 (0.6%) to 3 (0.2%) (P = 0.047).

CONCLUSIONS

An educational workshop focusing on perineal support was not associated with a significant reduction in overall OASIS rates. Nevertheless, decreased forceps-related OASIS and fourth-degree lacerations rates support positive influence of the intervention.

Fecal and Urinary Incontinence Associated with Pregnancy and Childbirth

Introduction:

Fecal incontinence (FI) and urinary incontinence (UI) are major problems faced by women worldwide, with pregnancy and delivery representing two major risk factors for these conditions. The prevalence of FI and UI varies across studies. In our region, only a few publications have addressed this topic.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of FI and UI in Saudi pregnant women, their characteristics, and a specific clinical pattern that could identify patients that are at a risk for incontinence.

Materials and Methods:

This was a questionnaire-based crosssectional study conducted over a 3 months period in 2017, among pregnant women attending King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Results:

Our study included 393 pregnant women. FI was reported by 24 patients (6.1%), and fecal urgency was reported by 30.5%. UI was reported by 84 patients (21.4 %). When patients with no UI were compared with patients with UI, the only statistically significant factor was BMI (p = 0.043). There were no statistically significant differences when comparing patients with FI versus no-FI, and fecal urgency versus no-fecal urgency. However, laceration (OR: 1.696, p = 0.036), episiotomy (OR: 1.413, p = 0.029), constipation (OR: 1.944, p < 0.001), hypertension (OR: 1.993, p = 0.022), and Bristol stool scale score (p = 0.002) were statistically significant factors for determining fecal control.

Conclusion:

FI and UI are frequently associated with pregnancy and delivery, but their prevalence is underestimated. The role of the practitioner is crucial in preventing and treating these conditions, and in impeding their harmful effects on the postpregnancy quality of life of Saudi women.

[Definition, epidemiology and risk factors of obstetric anal sphincter injuries: CNGOF Perineal Prevention and Protection in Obstetrics Guidelines]

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this review was to agree on a definition of the obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS), to determine the prevalence and risk factors.

METHODS

A comprehensive review of the literature on the obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS), establishment of levels of evidence (NP), and grades of recommendation according to the methodology of the recommendations for clinical practice.

RESULTS

To classify obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS), we have used the WHO-RCOG classification, which lists 4 degrees of severity. To designate obstetric anal sphincter injuries, we have used the acronym OASIS, rather than the standard French terms of "complete perineum" and "complicated complete perineum". OASIS with only isolated involvement of the EAS (3a and 3b) appears to have a better functional prognosis than OASIS affecting the IAS or the anorectal mucosa (3c and 4) (LE3). The prevalence of women with ano-rectal symptoms increases with the severity of the OASIS (LE3). In the long term, 35-60% of women who had an OASIS have anal or fecal incontinence (LE3). The prevalence of an OASI in the general population is between 0.25 to 6%. The prevalence of OASIS in primiparous women is between 1.4 and 16% and thus, should be considered more important than among the multiparous women (0.4 to 2.7%). In women with a history of previous OASIS, the risk of occurrence is higher and varies between 5.1 and 10.7% following childbirth. The priority in this context remains the training of childbirth professionals (midwives and obstetricians) to detect these injuries in the delivery room, immediately after the birth. The training and awareness of these practitioners of OASIS diagnosis improves its detection in the delivery room (LE2). Professional experience is associated with better detection of OASIS (LE3) (4). Continuing professional education of obstetrics professionals in the diagnosis and repair of OASIS must be encouraged (Grade C). In the case of second-degree perineal tear, the use of ultrasound in the delivery room improves the diagnosis of OASIS (LE2). Ultrasound decreases the prevalence of symptoms of severe anal incontinence at 1 year (LE2). The diagnosis of OASIS is improved by the use of endo-anal ultrasonography in post-partum (72h-6weeks) (LE2). The principal factors associated with OASIS are nulliparity and instrumental (vaginal operative) delivery; the others are advanced maternal age, history of OASIS, macrosomia, midline episiotomy, posterior cephalic positions, and long labour (LE2). The presence of a perianal lesion (perianal fissure, or anorectal or rectovaginal fistula) is associated with an increased risk of 4th degree lacerations (LE3). Crohn's disease without perianal involvement is not associated with an excess risk of OASIS (LE3). For women with type III genital mutilation, deinfibulation before delivery is associated with a reduction in the risk of OASIS (LE3); in this situation, deinfibulation is recommended before delivery (grade C).

CONCLUSION

It is necessary to use a consensus definition of the OASIS to be able to better detect and treat them.

Structure-function relationship of the human external anal sphincter

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Obstetrical external anal sphincter (EAS) injury and subsequent dysfunction are leading risk factors for female fecal incontinence (FI). Limited knowledge of the EAS structure-function relationship hinders treatment optimization. We directly measured functionally relevant intrinsic parameters of human EAS and tested whether vaginal delivery alters the EAS structure-function relationship.

METHODS

Major predictors of in vivo EAS function were compared between specimens procured from vaginally nulliparous (VN, n = 5) and vaginally parous (VP, n = 7) cadaveric donors: operational sarcomere length (Ls), which dictates force-length relationship; physiological cross-sectional area (PCSA), which determines isometric force-generating capacity; fiber length (Lfn), responsible for muscle excursion and contractile velocity; and muscle stiffness. Data were analyzed using unpaired and paired t tests, α < 0.05. Results are presented as mean ± SEM.

RESULTS

The VN and VP (median parity 3) groups were similar in age and BMI. No gross anatomical defects were identified. EAS Ls (2.36 ± 0.05 μm) was shorter than the optimal Lso (2.7 μm), at which contractile force is maximal, P = 0.0001. Stiffness was lower at Ls than Lso (5.4 ± 14 kPa/μm vs 35.3 ± 12 kPa/μm, P < 0.0001). This structural design allows active and passive tension to increase with EAS stretching. EAS relatively long Lfn (106 ± 24.8 mm) permits rapid contraction without decreased force, whereas intermediate PCSA (1.3 ± 0.3 cm2) is conducive to maintaining resting tone. All parameters were similar between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This first direct examination of human EAS underscores how EAS intrinsic design matches its intended function. Knowledge of the EAS structure-function relationship is important for understanding the pathogenesis of FI and the optimization of treatments for EAS dysfunction.

Overdiagnosis and rising rate of obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS): time for reappraisal

OBJECTIVES

To determine the accuracy of clinical diagnosis of obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) using three-dimensional (3D) endoanal ultrasound (EA-US) and to compare symptoms and anal manometry measurements between women with anal sphincters adequately repaired and those with persistent anal sphincter defects.

METHODS

The EA-US images of women with clinically diagnosed and repaired OASIS, defined as third- or fourth-degree perineal tear, who attended the perineal clinic at Croydon University Hospital over a 10-year period (2003-2013) were reanalyzed by a single expert blind to symptoms and the results of clinical examination. St Mark's Incontinence Scores (SMIS) and anal manometry measurements were obtained and compared between women with an intact anal sphincter and those with an anal sphincter scar and between those with an intact anal sphincter and those with a defect. Anal manometry measurements were compared between women with an external anal sphincter (EAS) defect and those with an internal anal sphincter (IAS) defect.

RESULTS

The images of 908 women were reanalyzed. No evidence of OASIS was found in 64 (7.0%) women, an EAS scar alone was detected in 520 (57.3%) and an anal sphincter defect in 324 (35.7%). Of the 324 women with a defect, 112 had an EAS defect, 90 had an IAS defect and 122 had a combined IAS and EAS defect. SMIS results were significantly higher in women with an anal sphincter defect compared with those with no evidence of OASIS (P = 0.018), but there was no significant difference in scores between women with an intact sphincter and those with an EAS scar only. Women with a defect had a significantly lower maximum resting pressure (median (range), 44 (8-106) vs 55 (29-86) mmHg; P < 0.001) and maximum squeeze pressure (median (range), 74 (23-180) vs 103 (44-185) mmHg; P < 0.001) compared with those in the intact group. Similar, but less marked, differences were observed in women with an EAS scar compared with those who had an intact anal sphincter. The anal length was significantly shorter in women with a defect compared with those in the intact group (median (range), 20 (10-40) vs 25 (10-40) mm; P = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

Seven percent of women with a clinical diagnosis of OASIS were wrongly diagnosed. We believe that this rate may differ from that of other units but training methods and competency assessment tools for the diagnosis and repair of OASIS need urgent reappraisal. The role of EA-US in the immediate postpartum period needs further evaluation as the accurate interpretation of the images is dependent on the expertise of the staff involved. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Wnt-β Catenin Signaling Pathway: A Major Player in the Injury Induced Fibrosis and Dysfunction of the External Anal Sphincter

Wnt-β catenin is an important signaling pathway in the genesis of fibrosis in many organ systems. Our goal was to examine the role of Wnt pathway in the external anal sphincter (EAS) injury-related fibrosis and muscle dysfunction. New Zealand White female rabbits were subjected to surgical EAS myotomy and administered local injections of either a Wnt antagonist (sFRP-2; daily for 7 days) or saline. Anal canal pressure and EAS length-tension (L-T) were measured for 15 weeks after which the animals were sacrificed. Anal canal was harvested and processed for histochemical studies (Masson trichrome stain), molecular markers of fibrosis (collagen and transforming growth factor-β) and immunostaining for β catenin. Surgical myotomy of the EAS resulted in significant impairment in anal canal pressure and EAS muscle L-T function. Following myotomy, the EAS muscle was replaced with fibrous tissue. Immunostaining revealed β catenin activation and molecular studies revealed 1.5–2 fold increase in the levels of markers of fibrosis. Local injection of sFRP-2 attenuated the β catenin activation and fibrosis. EAS muscle content and function was significantly improved following sFRP-2 treatment. Our studies suggest that upregulation of Wnt signaling is an important molecular mechanism of injury related EAS muscle fibrosis and sphincter dysfunction.

Obstetrics anal sphincter injury and repair technique: a review

The Urogynecology Committee of the Asia and Oceania Federation of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (AOFOG) has held seminars and workshops on various urogynecological problems in each country in the Asia-Oceania area in order to encourage young obstetricians and gynecologists. In 2013, we organized the operative seminar for obstetrical anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) in which we prepared porcine models to educate young physicians in a hands-on workshop at the 23rd Asian and Oceanic Congress of Obstetrics and Gynaecology in Bangkok, Thailand. Laceration of the anal sphincter mostly occurs during vaginal delivery and it can develop into anal sphincter deficiency, which causes fecal incontinence, if an appropriate suture is not performed. OASIS has become an important issue, especially in developing countries. The prevalence of OASIS of more than the third degree is around 5% in primary parous women and the frequency is higher when detected by ultrasonographic evaluation. Several risk factors, such as macrosomia, instrumental labor, perineal episiotomy and high maternal age, have been recognized. In a society where pregnant women are getting older, OASIS is becoming a more serious issue. An intrapartum primary appropriate stitch is important, but the 1-year outcome of a delayed operation after 2 weeks postpartum is similar. A randomized controlled study showed that overlapping suture of the external sphincter is better than that of end-to-end surgical repair. The Urogynecology Committee of the AOFOG would like to continue with educative programs about the appropriate therapy for OASIS.

Incontinence after primary repair of obstetric anal sphincter tears is related to relative length of reconstructed external sphincter: a case-control study

OBJECTIVE

To determine if anatomic primary repair with end-to-end reconstruction of the external anal sphincter (EAS) in its full length combined with separate repair of coexisting internal anal sphincter (IAS) tear, when present, results in less incontinence and better anal sphincter integrity compared with conventional primary end-to-end repair in which the IAS is not actively reconstructed.

METHODS

Women who sustained third- or fourth-degree obstetric tears were included prospectively in the study following anatomic primary repair. Women treated with conventional primary repair prior to the study period comprised the control group. Three-dimensional endoanal ultrasonography (3D-EAUS) images were classified according to the EAUS defect score, and incontinence according to St Mark's score.

RESULTS

Sixty-three women were included in the study group and 61 in the control group, with mean follow-up times of 11 and 21 months, respectively. Among women who had not delivered vaginally prior to the tear, St Mark's score ≥ 3 was reported by 9.6% (5/52) in the study group and 37.5% (15/40) in the control group at follow-up (P = 0.002). The corresponding numbers among women who had previously delivered vaginally were 36.4% (4/11) and 42.9% (9/21), respectively (non-significant). St Mark's score correlated with the EAUS defect score (P = 0.017). An EAS defect exceeding 50% of the sphincter length was significantly less common in the study group, and in a multivariable logistic regression model, mode of repair (anatomic vs conventional) was the only factor explaining the difference in EAS sphincter length between the two groups (P = 0.007).

CONCLUSION

Improved continence status after anatomic primary repair was associated with a better longitudinal reconstruction of the EAS, while the integrity of the IAS did not differ between the groups. Women with a history of vaginal delivery prior to the sphincter tear had an inferior outcome regardless of mode of repair.

Three-dimensional endoanal ultrasonography in daily proctological practice

Three-dimensional endoanal ultrasonography (3D-EAUS) provides unequalled quality in terms of the anatomical image of the anal canal and sphincter complex. In less than one minute it produces a three-dimensional "cube" that can be manipulated in all spatial dimensions, then archived. In just a few years it has become a new gold standard exploration in proctology. In addition to image quality, 3D-EAUS has the advantage of being easily and rapidly performed, well-tolerated and moderate in cost. For anal incontinence, 3D-EAUS contributes to the identification of sphincter defects. The anatomy of the sphincters can be evaluated spatially. Simple scoring systems with good reproducibility and readily applicable in routine practice can be used to evaluate the "damaged" sphincter volume. For the management of anoperineal suppurations, 3D-EAUS provides information on the fistulous track(s) and on potential collections. These data are crucial as the choice of treatment and its efficacy depend on accurate topographic assessment of the suppuration and the state of the sphincter apparatus.

The diagnostic accuracy of endovaginal and transperineal ultrasound for detecting anal sphincter defects: The PREDICT study

AIM

To determine the accuracy and predictive value of transperineal (TPU) and endovaginal ultrasound (EVU) in the detection of anal sphincter defects in women with obstetric anal sphincter injuries and/or postpartum symptoms of faecal incontinence.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred and sixty-five women were recruited, four women were excluded as they were seen years after their last delivery. TPU and EVU, followed by endonanal ultrasound (EAU), were performed using the B&K Viking 2400 scanner. Sensitivity and specificity, as well as predictive values with 95% confidence intervals, for detecting anal sphincter defects were calculated for EVU and TPU, using EAU as the reference standard.

RESULTS

On EAU a defect was found in 42 (26%) women: 39 (93%) had an external (EAS) and 23 (55%) an internal anal sphincter (IAS) defect. Analysable images of one level of the EAS combined with an analysable IAS were available in 140 (87%) women for EVU and in 131 (81%) for TPU. The sensitivity and specificity for the detection of any defect was 48% (30-67%) and 85% (77-91%) for EVU and 64% (44-81%) and 85% (77-91%) for TPU, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Although EAU using a rotating endoprobe is the validated reference standard in the identification of anal sphincter defects, it is not universally available. However while TPU and/or EVU with conventional ultrasound probes can be useful in identifying normality, for clinical purposes they are not sensitive enough to identify an underlying sphincter defect.

A modified surgical approach to women with obstetric anal sphincter tears by separate suturing of external and internal anal sphincter. A modified approach to obstetric anal sphincter injury

Background

Long-term results after obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) are poor. We aimed to improve the long-term outcome after OASI by lessening symptoms of anal incontinence.

Methods

In a prospective study at Malmö University Hospital, twenty-six women with at least grade 3B OASI were classified and sutured in a systematic way, including separate suturing of the internal and external sphincter muscles with monofilament absorbable sutures. The principal outcome assessed by answers given to six questions, was a difference in anal incontinence score, between the study group and two control groups (women with prior OASI [n = 180] and primiparous women delivered vaginally without a diagnose of OASI [n = 100]).

Results

An anal incontinence score of zero (i.e., no symptoms) was found in 74% of the study group, 47% of the OASI control group, and 66% of the vaginal control group (p = 0.02 and 0.5, as compared to the study group).

Conclusions

A modified suturing technique was followed by significant improved one-year symptoms of anal incontinence as compared to historical cases.

Outcome of primary repair of obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS): does the grade of tear matter?

OBJECTIVES

To assess risk factors and outcome of different grades of obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) after primary repair, and to assess the relationship between outcome of anal sphincter defects as diagnosed by endoanal ultrasound.

METHODS

We included 531 consecutive women (of which eight were tertiary referrals) who had sustained OASIS, underwent primary sphincter repair and were followed up between July 2002 and July 2008. At follow-up, defecatory symptoms and bowel-related quality of life (QoL) were evaluated and anal manometry and endoanal ultrasound were performed.

RESULTS

The mean time of follow-up was 9 (SD, 5.9) weeks after delivery. Compared with women with a minor (Grade 3a/3b) tear, those with a major (Grade 3c/4) one had a significantly poorer outcome (P < 0.05) with respect to the development of defecatory symptoms and associated QoL as well as anal manometry. Women with major tears were significantly more likely to have an endosonographic isolated internal anal sphincter (IAS) or combined IAS and external anal sphincter (EAS) defect. Combined defects were associated with a higher risk of loose fecal incontinence and lower anal canal pressures. Use of epidural analgesia was the only independent factor predicting a major tear.

CONCLUSIONS

The greater likelihood of endosonographic anal sphincter defects in women with major tears compared with minor tears is the probable cause of the less favorable outcome of primary repair. Endosonographic combined defects are associated with poorer outcome and it is therefore important to identify the full extent of injury at delivery in women who sustain OASIS, and to pay particular attention to repair of IAS defects.

[Current indications, surgical technique and results of anterior sphincter repair as a treatment of faecal incontinence]

Faecal incontinence is a high prevalence disease in the general population. This pathology is commonly under-estimated and causes a great impact on clinical status and on the quality of life of affected patients. The prevalence of faecal incontinence in several studies has been estimated between 2% and 15% of the general population. The prevalence increases if we study selected populations, such as elderly people. The main cause of faecal incontinence is obstetric anal sphincter damage. In the past years, the presence of incontinence due to sphincter lesions, especially the obstetric ones, was an absolute indication of anterior anal sphincter repair. Actually, after knowing the long term follow up results of this technique, as well as the evolving knowledge on faecal incontinence and the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic techniques, this technique might be selected for cases with large sphincter defects. However there is limited information in the current literature on indications, surgical technique and results of anterior sphincter repair. The aim of this review is to analyse scientific evidence on current indications, surgical technique features and results of anterior sphincter repair as a therapy for faecal incontinence, also giving our point of view on controversial issues. A bibliography search was undertaken using Medline database including articles published from January 1985 to January 2009.

Defects on endoanal ultrasound and anal incontinence after primary repair of fourth-degree anal sphincter rupture: a study of the anal sphincter complex and puborectal muscle

OBJECTIVES

To perform three-dimensional endoanal ultrasound (EAUS) after primary repair of fourth-degree anal sphincter rupture (ASR) and correlate the sonographic defects with anal incontinence (AI); to measure the axial and sagittal thickness and angle of the puborectal muscle (PRM) as well as the length of the anal canal, and then correlate these measures with AI; and to assess the interobserver measurement agreement between an inexperienced and an experienced sonologist.

METHODS

EAUS was offered to 84 consecutive women, who were asked to answer a validated questionnaire after fourth-degree ASR. AI was graded according to the Wexner score and EAUS defects were graded according to the Starck score.

RESULTS

Sixty-one women (73%) answered the questionnaire. The median (range) follow-up time was 5.1 (1.3-8.7) years. Thirty-three (54%) of these women underwent EAUS and were included in the study. There was no difference in the incontinence scores between women who underwent EAUS and those who did not. Eleven of the women who underwent EAUS (33%) were continent, 22 women (67%) had flatus incontinence at least once a month, of whom 12 also had incontinence for liquid stool and two had incontinence for solid stool. The median Wexner score was 2 (range, 0-12). Five of the patients (15%) had no ultrasound defects. All of the patients with Wexner scores > or = 4 had a Starck score of > or = 10. No association between ultrasound defects and AI was demonstrated, however, the angle of the PRM and parity were associated with Starck score. No clear association between the measurements of the PRM and AI was shown. The experienced observer detected more of the small defects than did the inexperienced observer.

CONCLUSION

In a 1-9-year follow-up period after primary suture of fourth-degree ASR, the frequency of AI was high, at 67%. No clear association was seen between AI and sphincter defects detected on ultrasonography. There was an association between the angle of the PRM and the extent of ultrasound defects.

Long-Term Results after Anterior Sphincteroplasty for Anal Incontinence

Objective:

To assess the long term incontinence and quality of life (Qol) results after elective anterior sphincteroplasty for anal incontinence.

Materials and Methods:

Short and long term follow-up included respectively 28 and 25 of the 29 patients who were operated between 1989 and 1998 in our institution. Qol was assessed with gastro intestinal quality of life index (GIQLI). Incontinence was graded according to Parks score supplied with St Mark's score at long term follow-up.

Results:

21 (73%) patients had a history of obstetric sphincter tears. Mean age at operation was 45 years (range 6–77). Median time from operation to short term follow-up was 26 months (mean 38 months, range 2–113) and 84 months (mean 105, range 74–185) to long term follow-up. At short term follow-up 19 of 28 patients (68%) were continent for stool compared with nine of 25 patients (36%) at long term follow-up. Nine of 17 (53%) who were continent for stool at short term follow-up remained continent for stool at long term follow-up. Patients with a history of obstetric sphincter tear had less severe incontinence at long term follow-up compared to women with other causes of incontinence (St. Mark's score 8 and 16 respectively, p = 0,015). Patients with no incontinence or gas incontinence only, had higher quality of life score at both follow-ups than those who where incontinent for stool (p = 0,007 and p = 0,014 respectively).

Conclusion:

More than half of the patients remained continent for stool at long term follow-up. Continence for stool was associated with high Qol score.

Surgery and sacral nerve stimulation for constipation and fecal incontinence

Fecal continence is a complex bodily function, which requires the interplay of sensation, rectal capacity, and anal neuromuscular function. Fecal incontinence affects approximately 2% of the population and has a prevalence of 15% in elderly patients. Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders. The variety of symptoms and risk factors suggest a multifactorial origin. Before any invasive intervention, the surgeon should have a thorough understanding of the etiology of these conditions. Appropriate medical management can improve symptoms in the majority of patients. Surgery is indicated when all medical possibilities are exhausted. This review discusses the most used surgical procedures emphasizing the latest experiences. Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) is a promising option for patients with fecal incontinence and constipation. The procedure affords patients improved continence and quality of life. The mechanism of action is still poorly understood. This treatment has been used before in other more invasive surgical procedures or even after their failure to improve patients' symptoms and avoid a definitive stoma. Before any invasive intervention, the surgeon should have a thorough understanding of the etiology of these conditions. Appropriate medical management can improve symptoms in the majority of patients. Surgery is indicated when all medical possibilities are exhausted. This review discusses the most used surgical procedures emphasizing the latest experiences. Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) is a promising option for patients with fecal incontinence and constipation. The procedure affords patients improved continence and quality of life. The mechanism of action is still poorly understood. This treatment has been used before in other more invasive surgical procedures or even after their failure to improve patients' symptoms and avoid a definitive stoma.

Endoanal ultrasound in benign anorectal disorders: clinical relevance and possibilities

Endoanal ultrasound is a well-established technique used to evaluate benign anorectal disorders. The technique is easy to perform, has a short learning curve and causes very little discomfort. Reconstruction of 3D images is possible. The clinical indications for endoanal ultrasound in benign anorectal diseases are fecal incontinence and peri-anal fistula. Sphincter defects can be depicted with precision and correlate perfectly with surgical findings. Furthermore, an impression of sphincter atrophy can be established. With perianal fistula the tracts can be visualized. Introducing hydrogen peroxide via the external fistula opening improves imaging. Endoanal ultrasound and MRI have comparable results in diagnosing anorectal disorders.

[What are the risk factors of anal incontinence after vaginal delivery?]

Fecal incontinence is one of the most feared complications of vaginal delivery. It may be the consequence of sphincter tears, of pudendal neuropathy, or of a combination of the two. Fecal incontinence occurs immediately following 13-54% of vaginal deliveries but its persistence in the mid and long term is poorly known. The incidence of perineal tear with anal sphincteric defect varies from 1-9% and the incidence of unrecognized sphincter injury may be as high as 18-35%. Half the women who undergo primary anal sphincter repair have short or long term continence problems. Pudendal neuropathy is caused by nerve stretch during pushing in the second stage of labor and descent of the fetal head; it may occur even with the first delivery. Risk factors for sphincter injury and pudendal neuropathy include forceps delivery, large neonatal size, and prolonged second stage of labor. The risk of fecal incontinence must be considered even during the first pregnancy. Routine episiotomy does not prevent sphincter injury and may even predispose to it. Pudendal neuropathy following delivery may lead to delayed fecal incontinence abetted by postmenopausal hormonal deficiency and tissue senescence. The possible benefit of early episiotomy for women at high risk of sphincter injury must be evaluated by prospective studies.

Treatment of experimental injury of anal sphincters with primary surgical repair and injection of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells

PURPOSE

Sphincter injury is a common cause of anal incontinence. Surgical repair remains the operation of choice; however, the outcome often is poor. We investigated the ability of injected bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells to enhance sphincter healing after injury and primary repair in a preclinical model.

METHODS

Twenty-four inbred Wistar Furth rats were divided into three groups. As a control, Group A underwent sham operation. Group B had sphincterotomy and repair of both anal sphincters plus saline injections. The study group (Group C) underwent sphincterotomy and repair followed by intrasphincteric injections of syngenic bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells. A further group (Group D) of outbred Wistar rats treated with mesenchymal stem cells and immunosuppressive therapy also was evaluated. At 30 days, histologic and morphometric analysis and in vitro contractility testing was performed.

RESULTS

A significant decrease of muscle tissue was observed at the site of repair after sphincter injury. However, in Groups C and D, histologic examination demonstrated new muscle fibers and morphometric analysis revealed a significantly greater muscle area fraction than in Group B (P < 0.05). Moreover, mesenchymal stem cells injection improved contractility of sphincters strips compared with Group B (P < 0.05). No significant differences were found between Groups C and D.

CONCLUSIONS

In our experimental model, bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells injection improved muscle regeneration and increased contractile function of anal sphincters after injury and repair. Therefore, mesenchymal stem cells may represent an attractive tool for treating anal sphincter lesions in humans. Investigations into the biologic basis of this phenomenon should increase our knowledge on underlying mechanisms involved in sphincter repair.

Obstetric anal sphincter injury: incidence, risk factors, and management

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Obstetric sphincter damage is the most common cause of fecal incontinence in women. This review aimed to survey the literature, and reach a consensus, on its incidence, risk factors, and management.

METHOD

This systematic review identified relevant studies from the following sources: Medline, Cochrane database, cross referencing from identified articles, conference abstracts and proceedings, and guidelines published by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (United Kingdom), Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (United Kingdom), and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

RESULTS

A total of 451 articles and abstracts were reviewed. There was a wide variation in the reported incidence of anal sphincter muscle injury from childbirth, with the true incidence likely to be approximately 11% of postpartum women. Risk factors for injury included instrumental delivery, prolonged second stage of labor, birth weight greater than 4 kg, fetal occipitoposterior presentation, and episiotomy. First vaginal delivery, induction of labor, epidural anesthesia, early pushing, and active restraint of the fetal head during delivery may be associated with an increased risk of sphincter trauma. The majority of sphincter tears can be identified clinically by a suitably trained clinician. In those with recognized tears at the time of delivery repair should be performed using long-term absorbable sutures. Patients presenting later with fecal incontinence may be managed successfully using antidiarrheal drugs and biofeedback. In those who fail conservative treatment, and who have a substantial sphincter disruption, elective repair may be attempted. The results of primary and elective repair may deteriorate with time. Sacral nerve stimulation may be an appropriate alternative treatment modality.

CONCLUSIONS

Obstetric anal sphincter damage, and related fecal incontinence, are common. Risk factors for such trauma are well recognized, and should allow for reduction of injury by proactive management. Improved classification, recognition, and follow-up of at-risk patients should facilitate improved outcome. Further studies are required to determine optimal long-term management.

Long-term outcome of delayed primary or early secondary reconstruction of the anal sphincter after obstetrical injury

PURPOSE

Traditionally sphincter repair has not been performed during the puerperium. This prospective study was designed to determine the long-term outcome of delayed primary or early secondary sphincteroplasty in the puerperium.

METHODS

Between 1991 and 2005, 22 females underwent delayed primary or early secondary repair after third-degree or fourth-degree anal sphincter rupture. Delayed primary reconstruction was performed more than 72 hours after delivery. Early secondary reconstruction was performed within 14 days postpartum. The reconstruction of the anal sphincter was performed without a covering stoma, in all cases. A control group of 19 age-matched and parity-matched females, without known anal sphincter injury after vaginal delivery, were included. Current degree of continence and associated quality of life were determined by a fecal incontinence severity questionnaire and a quality of life questionnaire.

RESULTS

None of the females had complications postoperatively. Mean follow-up was 50 (range, 2-155) months in the case group and 60 (range, 12-132) months in the control group. At time of follow-up, the Wexner score was 4.1 (range, 0-13) in females with delayed primary or early secondary reconstruction and 1.1 (range, 0-8) in the control group (P<0.01). The inconvenience of incontinence after reconstruction was significantly higher (P<0.01) compared with the control group, but the quality of life was not significantly affected (P=0.75).

CONCLUSIONS

It is safe to perform a delayed primary or early secondary reconstruction without a covering stoma in females who have sustained a third-degree or fourth-degree obstetric tear. The long-term functional outcome is acceptable.

Correlation between anal sphincter defects and anal incontinence following obstetric sphincter tears: assessment using scoring systems for sonographic classification of defects

OBJECTIVE

To determine if there is a correlation between the sonographic extent of anal sphincter defects revealed by three-dimensional endoanal sonography (EAUS) and the degree of anal incontinence following primary repair of obstetric sphincter tears.

METHODS

This was a follow-up study of women who had suffered anal sphincter tearing during vaginal delivery at Aalesund Hospital between January 2002 and July 2004. Incontinence was assessed by St Mark's score. The anal canal was assessed with three-dimensional endoanal sonography (EAUS). Sphincter defects were classified according to the Starck score and our new EAUS defect score. The EAUS images were interpreted by an observer blinded to other patient data.

RESULTS

Sixty-one women were included in this study. Incontinence was reported by 32 (52%) women at a median of 21 (range, 9-35) months after delivery. Three-dimensional EAUS datasets were obtained in 55 women. There was a significant correlation between St Mark's score and our EAUS defect score (P = 0.034), and correlation approached but did not reach significance between St Mark's score and the Starck score (P = 0.053). There was a strong correlation between our EAUS defect score and the Starck score (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

There is a positive correlation between the extent of sphincter defects and the degree of anal incontinence following primary repair of obstetric sphincter tears. Our findings highlight the importance of adequate reconstruction of the anal sphincters during primary repair.

A classification system for faecal incontinence based on anorectal investigations

Background

Faecal incontinence is a socially disabling condition that affects a heterogeneous population of patients. There is no standardization of investigations, and treatment outcomes are variable. The major limitation for comparing the results from different studies is the lack of a pretreatment classification of incontinence. The aim of this study was to review the anorectal investigation findings and propose a simple, repeatable classification for faecal incontinence.

Methods

Patients who had anorectal investigations for defaecatory disorders from February 2000 to September 2006 were analysed retrospectively. All patients had anorectal manometry, anal mucosal electrosensitivity testing and endoanal ultrasonography.

Results

Of a total of 1294 patients, 135 were excluded, leaving 1159 (460 continent and 699 incontinent) for analysis. The patients were divided into four groups: traumatic incontinence, neuropathic faecal incontinence, combined faecal incontinence and idiopathic faecal incontinence. The manometric variables and demographics were distinct in these groups.

Conclusion

Patients with faecal incontinence can be classified into different groups with distinct pathophysiological variables. Such a classification system will enable comparison and interpretation of the outcomes of different studies and also help in the selection of patients for appropriate treatments.

Evolving therapy for fecal incontinence

BACKGROUND

Fecal incontinence is common and can be socially debilitating. Nonoperative management of fecal incontinence includes dietary modification, antidiarrheal medication, and biofeedback. The traditional surgical approach is sphincteroplasty if there is a defect of the external sphincter. Innovative treatment modalities have included sacral nerve stimulation, injectable implants, dynamic graciloplasty, and artificial bowel sphincter.

DISCUSSION

This review was designed to assess the various surgical options available for fecal incontinence and critically evaluate the evidence behind these procedures. The algorithm in the surgical treatment of fecal incontinence is shifting. Injectable therapy and sacral nerve stimulation are likely to be the mainstay in future treatment of moderate and severe fecal incontinence, respectively. Sphincteroplasty is limited to a small group of patients with isolated defect of the external sphincter. A stoma, although effective, can be avoided in most cases.

Postpartum anal sphincter lacerations in a population with minimal exposure to episiotomy and operative vaginal delivery

This case-control study was designed to identify risk factors for anal sphincter lacerations (ASL) in a multicultural population where episiotomies and operative vaginal deliveries are rarely performed. Cases were subjects with ASL delivered between July 1997 and June 2003. Two controls were selected for each case matched for gestational age. Independent variables collected included age, race/ethnicity, parity, tobacco use, medical conditions, episiotomy, operative vaginal delivery, epidural use, and infant weight. One thousand and sixty-six subjects met the inclusion criteria. The risk of ASL increased with increasing maternal age (Odds ratio [OR] 1.09 per year, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.06, 1.12) and increasing infant weight (OR 1.09 per 100 g, 95% CI 1.06, 1.13). Multiparity was protective (P1 vs P2 OR 0.19, 95% CI 0.13, 0.28, and > or =P3 vs P1 OR 0.04, 95% CI 0.02, 0.11). Hispanic and Native American women were at increased risk for ASL (OR 2.08, 95% CI 1.41, 3.09 and OR 1.92, 95% CI 1.07, 3.45, respectively).