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

The Evolving Use of Magnets in Surgery: Biomedical Considerations and a Review of Their Current Applications

The novel use of magnetic force to optimize modern surgical techniques originated in the 1970s. Since then, magnets have been utilized as an adjunct or alternative to a wide array of existing surgical procedures, ranging from gastrointestinal to vascular surgery. As the use of magnets in surgery continues to grow, the body of knowledge on magnetic surgical devices from preclinical development to clinical implementation has expanded significantly; however, the current magnetic surgical devices can be organized based on their core function: serving as a guidance system, creating a new connection, recreating a physiologic function, or utilization of an internal–external paired magnet system. The purpose of this article is to discuss the biomedical considerations during magnetic device development and review the current surgical applications of magnetic devices.

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.

What Is Fecal Incontinence That Urologists Need to Know?

Fecal incontinence (FI) undoubtedly reduces quality of life and adversely affects the social life of the affected individual. FI has a higher prevalence with age and has an equivalent prevalence to urinary incontinence in patients with genitourinary disease, but is often not confirmed in these cases. A thorough investigation is needed to diagnose FI, with the common etiology of this condition in mind, and several questionnaires can be used to identify symptoms. The physical examination contains digital rectal examination carries out to identify the patient's condition. Ultrasound, colonoscopy, and rectum pressure test can be performed. Patients educated in diet-related issues, bowel movements, and defecation mechanism. Nonoperative options such as diet control and Kegel exercise should be performed at first. Surgical treatment of FI is considered when conservative management and oral medications produce no improvement. Surgical options include less invasive procedures like bulking agent injections, and more involved approaches from sacral nerve stimulation to invasive direct sphincter repair and artificial bowel sphincter insertion. Good outcomes in FI cases have also recently been reported for barrier devices.

Surgical Treatment Alternatives to Sacral Neuromodulation for Fecal Incontinence: Injectables, Sphincter Repair, and Colostomy

Fecal incontinence is a prevalent health problem that affects over 20% of healthy women. Many surgical treatment options exist for fecal incontinence after attempts at non-operative management. In this article, the authors discuss surgical treatment options for fecal incontinence other than sacral neuromodulation.

Tools for fecal incontinence assessment: lessons for inflammatory bowel disease trials based on a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Fecal incontinence is a disabling condition affecting up to 20% of women.

OBJECTIVE

We investigated fecal incontinence assessment in both inflammatory bowel disease and non-inflammatory bowel disease patients to propose a diagnostic approach for inflammatory bowel disease trials.

METHODS

We searched on Pubmed, Embase and Cochrane Library for all studies on adult inflammatory bowel disease and non-inflammatory bowel disease patients reporting data on fecal incontinence assessment from January 2009 to December 2019.

RESULTS

In total, 328 studies were included; 306 studies enrolled non-inflammatory bowel disease patients and 22 studies enrolled inflammatory bowel disease patients. In non-inflammatory bowel disease trials the most used tools were the Wexner score, fecal incontinence quality of life questionnaire, Vaizey score and fecal incontinence severity index (in 187, 91, 62 and 33 studies). Anal manometry was adopted in 41.2% and endoanal ultrasonography in 34.0% of the studies. In 142 studies (46.4%) fecal incontinence evaluation was performed with a single instrument, while in 64 (20.9%) and 100 (32.7%) studies two or more instruments were used. In inflammatory bowel disease studies the Wexner score, Vaizey score and inflammatory bowel disease quality of life questionnaire were the most commonly adopted tools (in five (22.7%), five (22.7%) and four (18.2%) studies). Anal manometry and endoanal ultrasonography were performed in 45.4% and 18.2% of the studies.

CONCLUSION

Based on prior validation and experience, we propose to use the Wexner score as the first step for fecal incontinence assessment in inflammatory bowel disease trials. Anal manometry and/or endoanal ultrasonography should be taken into account in the case of positive questionnaires.

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.

Anorectal Disorders: An Update

Anorectal disorders encompass structural, neuromuscular, and functional disorders. They are common, often distressing, and in some cases debilitating, and significantly add to the health care burden. They present with multiple, overlapping symptoms that can often obscure the underlying pathology and can pose significant diagnostic and management dilemmas. A meticulous history and comprehensive digital rectal examination can provide clarity on the diagnosis, appropriate testing, and management of these conditions. Today, with the development of sophisticated diagnostic tools such as high-resolution and high-definition (3-D) anorectal manometry, 3-D anal ultrasonography, magnetic resonance defecography and imaging, and neurophysiological tests such as translumbosacral anorectal magnetic stimulation, it is possible to more accurately define and characterize the underlying structural and functional abnormalities. In this review, we present a succinct update on the latest knowledge with regards to the pathophysiology, diagnosis and management of anal fissure, hemorrhoids, rectal prolapse, intussusception, rectocele, solitary rectal ulcer syndrome, levator ani syndrome, dyssynergic defecation and fecal incontinence.

Recent advances in managing fecal incontinence

Fecal incontinence (FI) is the uncontrolled passage of feces or gas in an individual who previously had control. The prevalence of the problem varies but can be as high as 50% of institutionalized individuals. The severity varies among individuals, but the negative impact on self-esteem and quality of life can have devastating effects. The goals of treatment are to decrease the frequency and severity of episodes as well as to improve quality of life. At present, several therapies, ranging from medical management to more invasive surgical interventions, are offered for the management of FI. In this article, we review the most recent advances in the management of FI.

Mechanical inserts for the treatment of faecal incontinence: A systematic review

Objective: To perform a systematic review of the literature to examine original research on the role of mechanical inserts, both vaginal and anal, for the treatment of faecal incontinence (FI).

Materials and methods: We searched the PubMed, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases for any peer-reviewed original research in English on the role of mechanical inserts for the treatment of FI.

Results: We identified 35 unique citations. After title review and exclusion of articles not reporting original research, eight publications were included in the final review: two focused on vaginal inserts and six focused on anal inserts. Limited evidence indicates that both vaginal and anal inserts can be an effective and safe therapeutic option for patients with FI.

Conclusions: Data regarding vaginal and anal mechanical inserts for the treatment of FI, albeit limited, suggest that inserts can be included in a discussion of therapeutic options for a patient with FI. Further studies are needed to elucidate long-term usability, efficacy, and safety.

Abbreviations: FI: faecal incontinence; (m)ITT: (modified) intention-to-treat

Laparoscopic Magnetic Compression Biliojejunostomy: A Preliminary Clinical Study

BACKGROUND

Magnetic compression anastomosis is a feasible and effective method for bilioenteric anastomosis (BEA) in animal model. The objective of the present study was to report our initial clinical experience in laparoscopically magnetic compression bilioenteric anastomosis (LMC-BEA).

METHODS

Patients with obstructive jaundice who were candidates for LMC-BEA were prospectively enrolled from 2013 to 2015. All the procedures were performed laparoscopically. A mother magnet and drainage tube were placed in the proximal bile duct and tightened by a purse suture after dissection of the common bile duct. The drainage tube was introduced into the jejunal lumen at the anastomotic site and guided a daughter magnet to approximate the mother magnet. The two magnets mated at the anastomotic site. All the patients were routinely followed up for magnets discharge till the end of the study.

RESULTS

In total, four patients with malignant obstructive jaundice and one patient with benign biliary stricture were included. The median age was 70 y (range, 49-74 y). The median time for LMC-BEA was 12 min (range, 8-15 min). A complete anastomosis was confirmed after a median time of 21 d (range, 5-25 d) postoperatively by cholangiography via drainage tube. The magnets were expulsed around 41 d after surgery (range, 12-47 d) postoperatively. With a median follow-up of 313 d (range, 223-1042 d), no complications associated with magnetic anastomosis was documented, such as bile leakage or anastomotic stricture.

CONCLUSIONS

Magnetic compression is a promising alternate method for laparoscopic BEA. Among the five patients undergoing LMC-BEA, no one developed anastomotic complications.

Anal and Perineal Injuries

With increased use of explosive devices in warfare, anal trauma is often seen coupled with more complex pelviperineal injury. While the associated mortality is high, casualties that survive are often left with disabling fecal incontinence from damage to the anosphincteric complex. After resolution of the acute insult, the initial evaluation mandates a thorough physical exam, including endoscopic evaluation with rigid proctoscopy and flexible sigmoidoscopy, as well as adjunctive testing, specifically anal manometry and endoanal ultrasound. First-line therapy favors bulking agents and antidiarrheals, in conjunction with biofeedback, due to a minimal risk profile. Surgical options range from direct sphincter repairs to complex anosphincteric reconstruction with widely variable results. Most recently, burgeoning therapies in the treatment of fecal incontinence, including sacral nerve stimulation and magnetic anal sphincters, offer excellent alternatives with promising long-term outcomes. In summation, the goal of all interventions is the re-establishment of bowel continence, but, in its absence, permanent fecal diversion for devastating fecal incontinence is a reasonable option with excellent patient satisfaction scores.

Surgical Interventions and the Use of Device-Aided Therapy for the Treatment of Fecal Incontinence and Defecatory Disorders

The purpose of this clinical practice update expert review is to describe the key principles in the use of surgical interventions and device-aided therapy for managing fecal incontinence (FI) and defecatory disorders. The best practices outlined in this review are based on relevant publications, including systematic reviews and expert opinion (when applicable). Best Practice Advice 1: A stepwise approach should be followed for management of FI. Conservative therapies (diet, fluids, techniques to improve evacuation, a bowel training program, management of diarrhea and constipation with diet and medications if necessary) will benefit approximately 25% of patients and should be tried first. Best Practice Advice 2: Pelvic floor retraining with biofeedback therapy is recommended for patients with FI who do not respond to the conservative measures indicated above. Best Practice Advice 3: Perianal bulking agents such as intra-anal injection of dextranomer may be considered when conservative measures and biofeedback therapy fail. Best Practice Advice 4: Sacral nerve stimulation should be considered for patients with moderate or severe FI in whom symptoms have not responded after a 3-month or longer trial of conservative measures and biofeedback therapy and who do not have contraindications to these procedures. Best Practice Advice 5: Until further evidence is available, percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation should not be used for managing FI in clinical practice. Best Practice Advice 6: Barrier devices should be offered to patients who have failed conservative or surgical therapy, or in those who have failed conservative therapy who do not want or are not eligible for more invasive interventions. Best Practice Advice 7: Anal sphincter repair (sphincteroplasty) should be considered in postpartum women with FI and in patients with recent sphincter injuries. In patients who present later with symptoms of FI unresponsive to conservative and biofeedback therapy and evidence of sphincter damage, sphincteroplasty may be considered when perianal bulking injection and sacral nerve stimulation are not available or have proven unsuccessful. Best Practice Advice 8: The artificial anal sphincter, dynamic graciloplasty, may be considered for patients with medically refractory severe FI who have failed treatment or are not candidates for barrier devices, sacral nerve stimulation, perianal bulking injection, sphincteroplasty and a colostomy. Best Practice Advice 9: Major anatomic defects (eg, rectovaginal fistula, full-thickness rectal prolapse, fistula in ano, or cloaca-like deformity) should be rectified with surgery. Best Practice Advice 10: A colostomy should be considered in patients with severe FI who have failed conservative treatment and have failed or are not candidates for barrier devices, minimally invasive surgical interventions, and sphincteroplasty. Best Practice Advice 11: A magnetic anal sphincter device may be considered for patients with medically refractory severe FI who have failed or are not candidates for barrier devices, perianal bulking injection, sacral nerve stimulation, sphincteroplasty, or a colostomy. Data regarding efficacy are limited and 40% of patients had moderate or severe complications. Best Practice Advice 12: For defecatory disorders, biofeedback therapy is the treatment of choice. Best Practice Advice 13: Based on limited evidence, sacral nerve stimulation should not be used for managing defecatory disorders in clinical practice. Best Practice Advice 14: Anterograde colonic enemas are not effective in the long term for management of defecatory disorders. Best Practice Advice 15: The stapled transanal rectal resection and related procedures should not be routinely performed for correction of structural abnormalities in patients with defecatory disorders.

Functional Results and Quality of Life Following Magnetic Anal Sphincter Augmentation in Severely Incontinent Patients

OBJECTIVE

Magnetic anal sphincter augmentation is a novel surgical option in the treatment of severe fecal incontinence. This study aimed to analyze functional results, quality of life, and satisfaction after implantation in the mid-term, and to identify factors associated with success of this new treatment.

METHODS

All patients, who underwent magnetic anal sphincter augmentation procedure at a single center between December 2008 and January 2016, were consecutively included. Symptom severity [Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score (CCIS)], quality of life [Fecal-Incontinence Quality of Life Questionnaire (FIQL)], bowel diary data, and patients' satisfaction were assessed before and after implantation.

RESULTS

Forty-five patients (43 female), mean (s.d.) age 66.82 (±10.07), were followed for a median of 36 months (range 6-84). Two patients were explanted and 1 lost to follow-up. On a 3-week diary, major leakage rate significantly improved as did CCIS and FIQL. No significant difference was seen for flatus and minor leaks. Postoperative decrease of CCIS by ≥5.5 points correlated best with satisfaction, expressed by 22 patients (48% in intention-to-treat analysis). An independent predictive factor for success after implantation was no previous fecal incontinence surgical treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Satisfaction, functional, and quality of life outcomes improve significantly following magnetic anal sphincter augmentation.

Long-term Experience of Magnetic Anal Sphincter Augmentation in Patients With Fecal Incontinence

BACKGROUND

Magnetic anal sphincter augmentation is a novel technique for the treatment of patients with fecal incontinence.

OBJECTIVE

The current study reports the long-term effectiveness and safety of this new treatment modality.

DESIGN

This was a prospective multicenter pilot study.

SETTINGS

The study was performed at 4 clinical sites in Europe and the United States.

PATIENTS

The cohort included patients with severe fecal incontinence for ≥6 months who had previously failed conservative therapy and were implanted with a magnetic anal sphincter device between 2008 and 2011.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Adverse events, symptom severity, quality of life, and bowel diary data were collected.

RESULTS

A total of 35 patients (34 women) underwent magnetic anal sphincter augmentation. The median length of follow-up was 5.0 years (range, 0-5.6 years), with 23 patients completing assessment at 5 years. Eight patients underwent a subsequent operation (7 device explantations) because of device failure or complications, 7 of which occurred in the first year. Therapeutic success rates, with patients who underwent device explantation or stoma creation counted as treatment failures, were 63% at year 1, 66% at year 3 and 53% at year 5. In patients who retained their device, the number of incontinent episodes per week and Cleveland Clinic incontinence scores significantly decreased from baseline, and there were significant improvements in all 4 scales of the Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life instrument. There were 30 adverse events reported in 20 patients, most commonly defecatory dysfunction (20%), pain (14%), erosion (11%), and infection (11%).

LIMITATIONS

This study does not allow for comparison between surgical treatments and involves a limited number of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Magnetic anal sphincter augmentation provided excellent outcomes in patients who retained a functioning device at long-term follow-up. Protocols to reduce early complications will be important to improve overall results.

Internal anal sphincter: Clinical perspective

OBJECTIVE

To summarise current knowledge of Internal anal sphincter.

BACKGROUND

The internal anal sphincter (IAS) is the involuntary ring of smooth muscle in the anal canal and is the major contributor to the resting pressure in the anus. Structural injury or functional weakness of the muscle results in passive incontinence of faeces and flatus. With advent of new assessment and treatment modalities IAS has become an important topic for surgeons. This review was undertaken to summarise our current knowledge of internal anal sphincter and highlight the areas that need further research.

METHOD

The PubMed database was used to identify relevant studies relating to internal anal sphincter.

RESULTS

The available evidence has been summarised and advantages and limitations highlighted for the different diagnostic and therapeutic techniques.

CONCLUSION

Our understanding of the physiology and pharmacology of IAS has increased greatly in the last three decades. Additionally, there has been a rise in diagnostic and therapeutic techniques specifically targeting the IAS. Although these are promising, future research is required before these can be incorporated into the management algorithm.

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.

Fecal Incontinence: Epidemiology, Impact, and Treatment

Fecal incontinence (FI) is a chronic and debilitating condition that carries a significant health, economic, and social burden. FI has a considerable psychosocial and financial impact on patients and their families. A variety of treatment modalities are available for FI including behavioral and dietary modifications, pharmacotherapy, pelvic floor physical therapy, bulking agents, anal sphincteroplasty, sacral nerve stimulation, artificial sphincters, magnetic sphincters, posterior anal sling, and colostomy.

Fecal Incontinence and Pelvic Floor Dysfunction in Women: A Review

Pelvic floor dysfunction and fecal incontinence is a common and debilitating condition in women, particularly as women age, and often goes under-reported to health care providers. It is important for providers to ask patients about possible symptoms. An algorithm for evaluation and treatment is presented. Current and future therapies are described and discussed.

Systematic Review of Surgical Treatments for Fecal Incontinence

BACKGROUND

No systematic review has examined the collective randomized and nonrandomized evidence for fecal incontinence treatment effectiveness across the range of surgical treatments.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy, comparative effectiveness, and harms of surgical treatments for fecal incontinence in adults.

DATA SOURCES

Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, Physiotherapy Evidence Database, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Allied and Complementary Medicine, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, as well as hand searches of systematic reviews, were used as data sources.

STUDY SELECTION

Two investigators screened abstracts for eligibility (surgical treatment of fecal incontinence in adults, published 1980-2015, randomized controlled trial or observational study with comparator; case series were included for adverse effects). Full-text articles were reviewed for patient-reported outcomes. We extracted data, assessed study risk of bias, and evaluated strength of evidence for each treatment-outcome combination.

INTERVENTIONS

Surgical treatments for fecal incontinence were included interventions.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Fecal incontinence episodes/severity, quality of life, urgency, and pain were measured.

RESULTS

Twenty-two studies met inclusion criteria (13 randomized trials and 9 observational trials); 53 case series were included for harms. Most patients were middle-aged women with mixed FI etiologies. Intervention and outcome heterogeneity precluded meta-analysis. Evidence was insufficient for all of the surgical comparisons. Few studies examined the same comparisons; no studies were high quality. Functional improvements varied; some authors excluded those patients with complications or lost to follow-up from analyses. Complications ranged from minor to major (infection, bowel obstruction, perforation, and fistula) and were most frequent after the artificial bowel sphincter (22%-100%). Major surgical complications often required reoperation; few required permanent colostomy.

LIMITATIONS

Most evidence is intermediate term, with small patient samples and substantial methodologic limitations.

CONCLUSIONS

Evidence was insufficient to support clinical or policy decisions for any surgical treatments for fecal incontinence in adults. More invasive surgical procedures had substantial complications. The lack of compliance with study reporting standards is a modifiable impediment in the field. Future studies should focus on longer-term outcomes and attempt to identify subgroups of adults who might benefit from specific procedures.

Management of patients with faecal incontinence

Faecal incontinence, defined as the involuntary loss of solid or liquid stool, is a common problem affecting 0.8-8.3% of the adult population. Individuals suffering from faecal incontinence often live a restricted life with reduced quality of life. The present paper is a clinically oriented review of the pathophysiology, evaluation and treatment of faecal incontinence. First-line therapy should be conservative and usually include dietary adjustments, fibre supplement, constipating agents or mini enemas. Biofeedback therapy to improve external anal sphincter function can be offered but the evidence for long-term effect is poor. There is good evidence that colonic irrigation can reduce symptoms and improve quality of life, especially in patients with neurogenic faecal incontinence. Surgical interventions should only be considered if conservative measures fail. Sacral nerve stimulation is a minimally invasive procedure with high rate of success. Advanced surgical procedures should be restricted to highly selected patients and only performed at specialist centres. A stoma should be considered if other treatment modalities fail.

SaFaRI: sacral nerve stimulation versus the FENIX magnetic sphincter augmentation for adult faecal incontinence: a randomised investigation

PURPOSE

Faecal incontinence is a physically, psychologically and socially disabling condition. NICE guidance (2007) recommends surgical intervention, including sacral nerve stimulation (SNS), after failed conservative therapies. The FENIX magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) device is a novel continence device consisting of a flexible band of interlinked titanium beads with magnetic cores that is placed around the anal canal to augment anal sphincter tone through passive attraction of the beads. Preliminary studies suggest the FENIX MSA is safe, but efficacy data is limited. Rigorous evaluation is required prior to widespread adoption.

METHOD AND DESIGN

The SaFaRI trial is a National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment (HTA)-funded UK multi-site, parallel group, randomised controlled, unblinded trial that will investigate the use of the FENIX MSA, as compared to SNS, for adult faecal incontinence resistant to conservative management. Twenty sites across the UK, experienced in the treatment of faecal incontinence, will recruit 350 patients randomised equally to receive either SNS or FENIX MSA. Participants will be followed-up at 2 weeks post-surgery and at 6, 12 and 18 months post-randomisation. The primary endpoint is success, as defined by device in use and ≥50 % improvement in the Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score (CCIS) at 18 months post-randomisation. Secondary endpoints include complications, quality of life and cost effectiveness.

DISCUSSION

SaFaRI will rigorously evaluate a new technology for faecal incontinence, the FENIX™ MSA, allowing its safe and controlled introduction into current clinical practice. These results will inform the future surgical management of adult faecal incontinence.

Treatment of fecal incontinence: state of the science summary for the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases workshop

This is the second of a two-part summary of a National Institutes of Health conference on fecal incontinence (FI) that summarizes current treatments and identifies research priorities. Conservative medical management consisting of patient education, fiber supplements or antidiarrheals, behavioral techniques such as scheduled toileting, and pelvic floor exercises restores continence in up to 25% of patients. Biofeedback, often recommended as first-line treatment after conservative management fails, produces satisfaction with treatment in up to 76% and continence in 55%; however, outcomes depend on the skill of the therapist, and some trials are less favorable. Electrical stimulation of the anal mucosa is ineffective, but continuous electrical pulsing of sacral nerves produces a ≥50% reduction in FI frequency in a median 73% of patients. Tibial nerve electrical stimulation with needle electrodes is promising but remains unproven. Sphincteroplasty produces short-term clinical improvement in a median 67%, but 5-year outcomes are poor. Injecting an inert bulking agent around the anal canal led to ≥50% reductions of FI in up to 53% of patients. Colostomy is used as a last resort because of adverse effects on quality of life. Several new devices are under investigation but not yet approved. FI researchers identify the following priorities for future research: (1) trials comparing the effectiveness, safety, and cost of current therapies; (2) studies addressing barriers to consulting for care; and (3) translational research on regenerative medicine. Unmet patient needs include FI in special populations (e.g., neurological disorders and nursing home residents) and improvements in behavioral treatments.

Magnetic anal sphincter augmentation in patients with severe fecal incontinence

BACKGROUND

Fecal incontinence is a common, distressing condition with limited surgical options.

OBJECTIVE

This study examines the results of magnetic sphincter augmentation in patients with severe fecal incontinence.

DESIGN

This was a single-center, prospective, nonrandomized investigation.

SETTING

This study was conducted in a private colorectal practice.

PATIENTS

The cohort included all of the patients implanted with magnetic sphincter augmentation between January 2012 and October 2013.

INTERVENTION

Magnetic sphincter augmentation was studied.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Adverse events, symptom severity, quality of life, bowel diary, and manometry data were collected.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients (15 women), with mean age of 69 years (range, 31-91 years), were implanted with magnetic sphincter augmentation. Follow-up ranged from 353 to 738 days. Previous treatment consisted of peripheral nerve evaluation test in 10 patients (56%), 2 patients (11%) with previous permanent sacral nerve stimulation, and 1 patient (6%) with previous implantation of an artificial bowel sphincter. Implantation was successful in 17 (94%) of 18 patients. Five patients (29%) had postoperative pain, and 5 patients (29%) had temporary swelling and erythema in both gluteal regions after the implantation. No devices were explanted during the follow-up. Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score decreased from a mean of 17.5 (range, 14.0-20.0) to 7.3 (range, 0-12.0), and Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life scores improved in all of the domains. Bowel diary results showed that 76% of the patients with implants experienced a ≥50% reduction in the number of fecal incontinence episodes per week. Manometry at 6 months after implantation showed increased mean resting and squeeze pressures.

LIMITATIONS

This study does not allow for comparison between surgical treatments and involves a limited number of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Magnetic sphincter augmentation shows consistent results for the treatment of severe fecal incontinence in this patient group. The surgical procedure is straightforward as compared with other implantable devices. The safety profile is acceptable. Magnetic sphincter augmentation is a promising new treatment with the potential to become a first-line surgical therapy for patients with severe fecal incontinence.

Current and emerging treatment options for fecal incontinence

Fecal incontinence (FI) is a multifactorial disorder that imposes considerable social and economic burdens. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of current and emerging treatment options for FI. A MEDLINE search was conducted for English-language articles related to FI prevalence, etiology, diagnosis, and treatment published from January 1, 1990 through June 1, 2013. The search was extended to unpublished trials on ClinicalTrials.gov and relevant publications cited in included articles. Conservative approaches, including dietary modifications, medications, muscle-strengthening exercises, and biofeedback, have been shown to provide short-term benefits. Transcutaneous electrical stimulation was considered ineffective in a randomized clinical trial. Unlike initial studies, sacral nerve stimulation has shown reasonable short-term effectiveness and some complications. Dynamic graciloplasty and artificial sphincter and bowel devices lack randomized controlled trials and have shown inconsistent results and high rates of explantation. Of injectable bulking agents, dextranomer microspheres in non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid (NASHA Dx) has shown significant improvement in incontinence scores and frequency of incontinence episodes, with generally mild adverse effects. For the treatment of FI, conservative measures and biofeedback therapy are modestly effective. When conservative therapies are ineffective, invasive procedures, including sacral nerve stimulation, may be considered, but they are associated with complications and lack randomized, controlled trials. Bulking agents may be an appropriate alternative therapy to consider before more aggressive therapies in patients who fail conservative therapies.

Novel treatment options for fecal incontinence

Fecal incontinence (FI) is a devastating condition affecting a substantial portion of the population. The etiologies of FI are wide ranging, as are the treatment options. When conservative measures fail, often surgical intervention is required. As in any area where a wide range of treatment options exist, there is no one perfect solution. Fortunately, novel treatment options for FI are becoming available, namely, posterior tibial nerve stimulation, magnetic anal sphincter, stem cell transplant, pyloric transplantation, and acupuncture.

Current management of fecal incontinence

OBJECTIVE

To review the management of fecal incontinence, which affects more than 1 in 10 people and can have a substantial negative impact on quality of life.

METHODS

The medical literature between 1980 and April 2012 was reviewed for the evaluation and management of fecal incontinence.

RESULTS

A comprehensive history and physical examination are required to help understand the severity and type of symptoms and the cause of incontinence. Treatment options range from medical therapy and minimally invasive interventions to more invasive procedures with varying degrees of morbidity. The treatment approach must be tailored to each patient. Many patients can have substantial improvement in symptoms with dietary management and biofeedback therapy. For younger patients with large sphincter defects, sphincter repair can be helpful. For patients in whom biofeedback has failed, other options include injectable medications, radiofrequency ablation, or sacral nerve stimulation. Patients with postdefecation fecal incontinence and a rectocele can benefit from rectocele repair. An artificial bowel sphincter is reserved for patients with more severe fecal incontinence.

CONCLUSION

The treatment algorithm for fecal incontinence will continue to evolve as additional data become available on newer technologies.

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.

Emerging surgical therapies for faecal incontinence

Faecal incontinence is a common condition and is associated with considerable morbidity and economic cost. The majority of patients are managed with conservative interventions. However, for those patients with severe or refractory incontinence, surgical treatment might be required. Over the past 20 years, numerous developments have been made in the surgical therapies available to treat such patients. These surgical therapies can be classified as techniques of neuromodulation, neosphincter creation (muscle or artificial) and injection therapy. Techniques of neuromodulation, particularly sacral nerve stimulation, have transformed the management of these patients with a minimally invasive procedure that offers good results and low morbidity. By contrast, neosphincter procedures are characterized by being more invasive and associated with considerable morbidity, although some patients will experience substantial improvements in their continence. Injection of bulking agents into the anal canal can improve symptoms and quality of life in patients with mild-to-moderate incontinence, and the use of autologous myoblasts might be a future therapy. Further research and development is required not only in terms of the devices and procedures, but also to identify which patients are likely to benefit most from such interventions.

What's New in the Toolbox for Constipation and Fecal Incontinence?

Constipation and fecal incontinence (FI) are common complaints predominantly affecting the elderly and women. They are associated with significant morbidity and high healthcare costs. The causes are often multi-factorial and overlapping. With the advent of new technologies, we have a better understanding of their underlying pathophysiology which may involve disruption at any levels along the gut-brain-microbiota axis. Initial approach to management should always be the exclusion of secondary causes. Mild symptoms can be approached with conservative measures that may include dietary modifications, exercise, and medications. New prokinetics (e.g., prucalopride) and secretagogues (e.g., lubiprostone and linaclotide) are effective and safe in constipation. Biofeedback is the treatment of choice for dyssynergic defecation. Refractory constipation may respond to neuromodulation therapy with colectomy as the last resort especially for slow-transit constipation of neuropathic origin. Likewise, in refractory FI, less invasive approach can be tried first before progressing to more invasive surgical approach. Injectable bulking agents, sacral nerve stimulation, and SECCA procedure have modest efficacy but safe and less invasive. Surgery has equivocal efficacy but there are promising new techniques including dynamic graciloplasty, artificial bowel sphincter, and magnetic anal sphincter. Despite being challenging, there are no short of alternatives in our toolbox for the management of constipation and FI.

Treatments of faecal incontinence: recommendations from the French national society of coloproctology

Faecal incontinence is common and significantly affects quality of life. Its treatment involves dietary manipulation, medical treatments, perineal rehabilitation or surgery. In this paper, the French National Society of Coloproctology offers recommendations based on the data in the current literature, including those on recently developed treatments. There is a lack of high quality data and most of the recommendations are therefore based either on grade of recommendation B or expert recommendation (Level 4). However, the literature supports the construction of an algorithm based on the available scientific evidence and expert recommendation which may be useful in clinical practice. The French National Society of Coloproctology proposes a decision-making algorithm that includes recent developments of treatment. The current recommendations support sacral nerve modulation as the key treatment for faecal incontinence. They do not support the use of sphincter substitutions except in certain circumstances. Transanal irrigation is a novel often successful treatment of faecal incontinence due to neurological disorders.

Surgical approaches to fecal incontinence in the adult

Surgical treatment of anal incontinence is indicated only for patients who have failed medical treatment. Sphincterorraphy is suitable in case of external sphincter rupture. In the last decade, sacral nerve stimulation has proven to be a scientifically validated solution when no sphincter lesion has been identified and more recently has also been proposed as an alternative in cases of limited sphincter defect. Anal reconstruction using artificial sphincters is still under evaluation in the literature, while indications for dynamic graciloplasty are decreasing due to its complexity and high morbidity. Less risky techniques involving intra-sphincteric injections are being developed, with encouraging preliminary results that need to be confirmed especially in the medium- and long-term. Antegrade colonic enemas instilled via cecostomy (Malone) can be an alternative to permanent stoma in patients who are well instructed in the techniques of colonic lavage. Stomal diversion is a solution of last resort.

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.

The magnetic anal sphincter in faecal incontinence: is initial success sustained over time?

AIM

In the short term, implantation of a magnetic anal sphincter (MAS) is a safe and effective treatment for faecal incontinence (FI). In this paper we show that the initial results stand the test of time and patient satisfaction remains high in the medium term.

METHOD

Data on 23 women [median age 64 (35-78) years] implanted with a MAS device between December 2008 and September 2012 were reviewed from a prospective database. Assessment was based on significant improvement of incontinence scores - the Cleveland Clinic Florida Incontinence Severity (CCF-IS) score, Faecal Incontinence Quality of Life (FIQoL) score - and patient satisfaction at 6, 12, 24 and 36 months after surgery.

RESULTS

The device was removed in two patients owing to complications. Median follow-up was 17.6 months. The median preoperative CCF-IS score was 15.2 and fell to 6.9, 7.7, 7.8 and 5.3 at 6, 12, 24 and 36 months, respectively. The median FIQoL score significantly (P < 0.001) improved from 1.97 preoperatively to 3.19, 3.11, 2.92 and 2.93, respectively, at the same time periods. The concordance of the CCF-IS and FIQoL scores was 91%. Sixteen of the 23 patients were satisfied but only 14 would have recommended the MAS to someone else. Lack of improvement was the main reason for dissatisfaction.

CONCLUSION

Good initial results tend to remain stable over time and about two-thirds of patients are satisfied after MAS implantation.

Anorectal incontinence: a challenge in diagnostic and therapeutic approach

Anorectal incontinence is a symptom of a complex multifactorial disorder involving the pelvic floor and anorectum, which is a severe disability and a major social problem. Various causes may affect the anatomical and functional integrity of the pelvic floor and anorectum, leading to the anorectal continence disorder and incontinence. The most common cause of anorectal incontinence is injury of the sphincter muscles following delivery or anorectal surgeries. Although the exact incidence of anorectal incontinence is unknown, various studies suggest that it affects ~2.2-8.3% of adults, with a significant prevalence in the elderly (>50%). The successful treatment of anorectal incontinence depends on the accurate diagnosis of its cause. This can be achieved by a thorough assessment of patients. The management of incontinent patients involves conservative therapeutic procedures, surgical techniques, and minimally invasive approaches.

Review of organic causes of fecal incontinence in children: evaluation and treatment

Even though fecal incontinence (FI) in children is most commonly the result of functional constipation, there are organic conditions that can be associated with incontinence. FI has a major impact on the quality of life of those children who experience it. The general objectives of any bowel program are to achieve predictability and independence. This is achieved by manipulating colonic transit and stool consistency and by producing more controlled evacuations, usually with the use of rectal interventions. Dietary interventions and medications can be used to change stool consistency or to manipulate transit by accelerating or slowing it down. Biofeedback or other interventions that increase sphincter pressure can also be used to improve anorectal function. Enemas or suppositories can be used to empty the sigmoid colon in a more controlled manner. With the recent advent of the antegrade colonic enemas, the patient can have predictable bowel movements and become independent.

Surgery for faecal incontinence in adults

BACKGROUND

Faecal incontinence is a debilitating problem with significant medical, social and economic implications. Treatment options include conservative, non-operative interventions (for example pelvic floor muscle training, biofeedback, drugs) and surgical procedures. A surgical procedure may be aimed at correcting an obvious mechanical defect, or augmenting a functionally deficient but structurally intact sphincter complex.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of surgical techniques for the treatment of faecal incontinence in adults who do not have rectal prolapse. Our aim was firstly to compare surgical management with non-surgical management and secondly, to compare the various surgical techniques.

SEARCH METHODS

Electronic searches of the Cochrane Incontinence Group Specialised Register (searched 6 March 2013), the Cochrane Colorectal Cancer Group Specialised Register (searched 6 March 2013), CENTRAL (2013, issue 1) and EMBASE (1 January 1998 to 6 March 2013) were undertaken. The British Journal of Surgery (1 January 1995 to 6 March 2013), Colorectal Diseases (1 January 2000 to 6 March 2013) and the Diseases of the Colon and Rectum (1 January 1995 to 6 March 2013) were specifically handsearched. The proceedings of the Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland annual meetings held from 1999 to 2012 were perused. Reference lists of all relevant articles were searched for further trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

All randomised or quasi-randomised trials of surgery in the management of adult faecal incontinence (other than surgery for rectal prolapse).

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Three review authors independently selected studies from the literature, assessed the methodological quality of eligible trials and extracted data. The three primary outcome measures were change or deterioration in incontinence, failure to achieve full continence, and the presence of faecal urgency.

MAIN RESULTS

Nine trials were included with a total sample size of 264 participants. Two trials included a group managed non-surgically. One trial compared levatorplasty with anal plug electrostimulation and one compared an artificial bowel sphincter with best supportive care. The artificial bowel sphincter resulted in significant improvements in at least one primary outcome but the numbers were small. The other trial showed no difference in the primary outcome measures.Seven trials compared different surgical interventions. These included anterior levatorplasty versus postanal repair, anterior levatorplasty versus total pelvic floor repair, total pelvic floor versus postanal repair, end to end versus overlap sphincter repair, overlap repair with or without a defunctioning stoma or with or without biofeedback, and total pelvic floor repair versus repair plus internal sphincter plication and neosphincter formation versus total pelvic floor repair. Sacral nerve stimulation and injectables are considered in separate Cochrane reviews. Only one comparison had more than one trial (total pelvic floor versus postanal repair, 44 participants) and no trial showed any difference in primary outcome measures.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The review is striking for the lack of high quality randomised controlled trials on faecal incontinence surgery that have been carried out in the last 10 years. Those trials that have been carried out have focused on sacral neuromodulation and injectable bulking agents, both reported in separate reviews. The continued small number of relevant trials identified together with their small sample sizes and other methodological weaknesses limit the usefulness of this review for guiding practice. It was impossible to identify or refute clinically important differences between the alternative surgical procedures. Larger rigorous trials are still needed. However, it should be recognised that the optimal treatment regime may be a complex combination of various surgical and non-surgical therapies.

Does the magnetic anal sphincter device compare favourably with sacral nerve stimulation in the management of faecal incontinence?

AIM

The magnetic anal sphincter (MAS) is a recent surgical innovation for severe faecal incontinence (FI). With its place in the treatment algorithm of FI yet to be defined, we report a nonrandomized comparison between MAS and sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) in a single-centre cohort of patients with FI.

METHOD

Data were reviewed from prospective databases. From December 2008 to December 2010, 12 women [median age 65 (42-76) years], having FI for a median of 6.5 years, were implanted with a MAS. Sixteen women, of similar age, preoperative function scores, aetiology and duration of incontinence, and implanted with a permanent SNS pulse generator during the same period, served as a reference group. The duration of hospital stay, complications, change in incontinence and quality of life scores and anal physiology were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The duration of follow up was similar [MAS = 18 (8-30) months vs SNS = 22 (10-28) months; P = 0.318]. Four patients with MAS experienced a 30-day complication, and the device was removed from one patient in each group. A significant improvement in incontinence (P < 0.001) and quality-of-life scores (P < 0.04) occurred in both groups. Mean anal resting pressure increased significantly in patients implanted with a MAS (P = 0.027).

CONCLUSION

In this single-centre nonrandomized cohort of FI patients, MAS was as effective as SNS in improving continence and quality of life, with similar morbidity. These results can now serve as a prelude to a randomized trial comparing the procedures.

Fecal incontinence: mechanisms and management

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Fecal incontinence is a common condition, which leads to impaired quality of life and huge financial cost at an individual and societal level. Recent studies have identified novel and potentially modifiable risk factors. Newer diagnostic modalities are giving more detailed information about underlying disorders, helping to implement targeted treatment. Many therapeutic options exist, and newer treatments are changing outcomes. This article will review recent developments in mechanisms, diagnosis, and treatment of fecal incontinence.

RECENT FINDINGS

Potentially modifiable risk factors have recently been identified, and should translate to changes in clinical practice and hopefully patient outcomes. These include diarrhea, smoking, and dietary fiber. Advances have been made in anatomical and physiological testing of the anorectum and this may assist in clarifying the diagnosis and guiding management. The long-term benefit of biofeedback has been questioned but patient selection may be key. Novel pharmacological therapies (e.g., clonidine) and minimally invasive surgical procedures are changing outcomes in well selected patients. The development of a magnetic anal sphincter may add a new management alternative in patients who are refractory to conservative management.

SUMMARY

Fecal incontinence remains a clinical challenge. Only a minority of persons with fecal incontinence seek treatment, but for those who do, improved understanding of risk factors coupled with diagnostic techniques and treatments are improving outcomes.