Quality of life impact in women with accidental bowel leakage

Missed Opportunities: A Mixed-Methods Assessment of Disparities in Treatment for Fecal Incontinence

IMPORTANCE

Previous work identified racial disparities in access to fecal incontinence (FI) treatments. However, less is known about patient perspectives of these barriers.

OBJECTIVES

This study assessed differences in FI symptom severity and treatment utilization between Black and White patients.

STUDY DESIGN

This mixed-methods assessment studied adult non-Hispanic Black and White women treated for FI who either did not respond to medical therapy nor received sacral neuromodulation or did not follow up after medical therapy. Structured interviews queried patients about treatments offered and symptom severity.

RESULTS

Of the 118 patients in the retrospective evaluation, 59 (50%, 24 Black and 35 White) were interviewed. Black patients were more likely than White patients to report occasional, weekly, or daily solid and stool incontinence (75.0% vs 48.6%, P = 0.042; 87.5% vs 51.4%, P = 0.004, respectively) and flatal incontinence (83.3% vs 62.9%, P = 0.088).Of those prescribed fiber supplements and antidiarrheal medications, Black patients were less likely to report symptom improvement (25.0% vs 70.0%, P = 0.013; 57.1% vs 87.5%, P = 0.092, respectively, for each medication type) and ongoing regimen adherence (25.0% vs 63.3%, P = 0.013; 28.6% vs 87.5%, P = 0.035, respectively).Black patients were more likely to report impairment in daily functioning secondary to FI (83.3% vs 57.1%, P = 0.034) and were more likely to seek a follow-up visit with a health care professional that performs sacral neuromodulation (79.2% vs 28.6%, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Black patients were more likely to have severe symptoms and poorer treatment outcomes and desire future follow-up, highlighting the importance of addressing racial differences in patient preferences in FI management strategies.

Diet Intake After Diet Modification Intervention in Women With Fecal Incontinence

IMPORTANCE

Older women with fecal incontinence (FI) who underwent diet modification intervention (DMI) showed significant improvement in FI symptoms. It is unclear whether improvement in symptoms was associated with objective changes in dietary intake quality.

OBJECTIVES

The primary aim was to determine if improvement in overall dietary intake quality was associated with improvement in FI symptoms. Our secondary aim was to evaluate whether individual food group consumption changes were associated with changes in FI symptoms.

STUDY DESIGN

This was an ancillary analysis of a prospective cohort study of women aged 65 years and older with FI who underwent DMI. Seven-day diet-and-bowel diaries at baseline and 6 weeks after DMI were examined for how frequently participants consumed food categories and FI triggers. Adherence to recommended dietary guidelines was assessed between 2 and 4 weeks using a 24-hour diet recall. Baseline and postintervention consumption were compared using the Wilcoxon signed rank test. Spearman correlation was used to compare dietary intake changes with FI symptom changes.

RESULTS

Twenty-four women completed the 24-hour diet recalls, and 17 women completed the 7-day diet-and-bowel diaries at baseline and 6 weeks. More participants who were adherent had clinically significant improvement in symptoms compared with those who were not adherent (70% vs 30%, P =0.57). Decreased consumption of saturated fats ( P =0.01) and fried foods ( P <0.001) was associated with improvement in FI symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

In this small population, overall dietary intake quality was not associated with change in FI symptom improvement. Decreased intake of saturated fat and fried food was associated with FI symptom improvement.

Exploring the association between type 2 diabetes and fecal incontinence in american adults: insights from a large cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

The relationship between fecal incontinence (FI) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) has been well recognized, but a comprehensive understanding of this relationship is lacking, taking into account demographic factors and lifestyle variables.

METHODS

Using a cross-sectional approach, 13,510 adults aged 20 years and older were identified from the 2005-2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to calculate the adjusted odds ratios (ORs), and further subgroup analyses and propensity score analysis were performed to ensure stable results.

RESULTS

Among 13,510 adults, 11.2% had T2D, and 8.8% had FI. We found a strong T2D-FI link (OR: 1.30; 95% CI: 1.09-1.54, P < 0.001), even after adjusting for covariates. Age > 45 was a critical factor, with a stronger T2D-FI association. Sedentary behavior (OR: 1.41; 95% CI: 1.15-1.73) in T2D patients were associated with FI.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study highlights the significant T2D-FI link in US adults, especially in older T2D patients. Lifestyle changes may reduce FI risk. More research is needed for causality and mechanisms.

Men and women experience different barriers to care seeking for fecal incontinence

BACKGROUND

Despite effective treatments for fecal incontinence (FI), FI remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. This study sought to characterize and compare rates of, delays in, experiences with, and barriers to care seeking for FI among men and women.

METHODS

This study was a secondary analysis of electronic survey data collected from adults with FI. The survey included the use of a validated instrument to assess FI severity and questions that now comprise a validated instrument for assessing barriers to care seeking for FI in women. Descriptive analyses characterized differences between men and women. χ2 testing for categorical variables and t-testing for normally distributed continuous variables compared statistical differences.

RESULTS

The sample (N = 548) was predominately female (84%), non-Hispanic White (90%), and insured (96%), with a mean Vaizey score (13.4 ± 5.3) consistent with moderate or severe FI. Care seeking rates (p = 0.81) and symptom duration before care seeking (p = 0.23) did not differ between women and men, but women were more likely than men to be told that effective treatments exist; most male and female respondents who sought care were offered treatment. Very few respondents had been asked about FI by a healthcare provider. Whereas normative thinking, limited life impact, and believing that a healthcare provider could not help were more common barriers to care seeking among men, avoidance, fear, and discouragement were more common in women.

CONCLUSIONS

Men and women with FI seek care at similar rates and after experiencing symptoms for a similar duration of time. Very few patients with FI have been screened for it by a healthcare provider. Barriers to FI care seeking are different for women and men, and men are less likely than women to be informed about effective treatments by a healthcare provider.

Characteristics associated with subjective and objective measures of treatment success in women undergoing percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation vs sham for accidental bowel leakage

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

In randomized trials both percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) and sham result in clinically significant improvements in accidental bowel leakage (ABL). We aimed to identify subgroups who may preferentially benefit from PTNS in women enrolled in a multicenter randomized trial.

METHODS

This planned secondary analysis explored factors associated with success for PTNS vs sham using various definitions: treatment responder using three cutoff points for St. Mark's score (≥3-, ≥4-, and ≥5-point reduction); Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I) of ≥ much better; and ≥50% reduction in fecal incontinence episodes (FIEs). Backward logistic regression models were generated using elements with significance of p<0.2 for each definition and interaction terms assessed differential effects of PTNS vs sham.

RESULTS

Of 166 women randomized, 160 provided data for at least one success definition. Overall, success rates were 65% (102 out of 158), 57% (90 out of 158), and 46% (73 out of 158) for ≥3-, ≥4-, and ≥5-point St Mark's reduction respectively; 43% (68 out of 157) for PGI-I; and 48% (70 out of 145) for ≥50% FIEs. Of those providing data for all definitions of success, 77% (109 out of 142) met one success criterion, 43% (61 out of 142) two, and 29% (41 out of 142) all three success criteria. No reliable or consistent factors were associated with improved outcomes with PTNS over sham regardless of definition.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite exploring diverse success outcomes, no subgroups of women with ABL differentially responded to PTNS over sham. Success results varied widely across subjective and objective definitions. Further investigation of ABL treatment success definitions that consistently and accurately capture patient symptom burden and improvement are needed.

Outcomes of graciloplasty in the treatment of fecal incontinence: a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature

BACKGROUND

Patients with refractory fecal incontinence symptoms can be treated with several surgical procedures including graciloplasty. Reported outcomes and morbidity rates of this procedure are highly variable. The aim of this study was to assess continence rate and safety of dynamic and adynamic graciloplasty.

METHODS

PubMed and Google Scholar databases were systematically searched from inception until January 2022 according to preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Reviews, animal studies, studies with patients < 18 years or < 10 patients, with no success rate reported or non-English text, were excluded. Main outcome measures were overall continence and morbidity rates of each technique.

RESULTS

Fourteen studies were identified, incorporating a total of 450 patients (337 females), published between 1980 and 2021. Most common etiology of incontinence (35.5%-n = 160) was obstetric trauma followed by anorectal trauma (20%-n = 90). The weighted mean rate of continence after dynamic graciloplasty was 69.1% (95% CI 0.53-0.84%, I2 = 90%) compared to 71% (95% CI 0.54-0.87, I2 = 82.5%) after adynamic. Although the weighted mean short-term complication rate was lower in the dynamic group (26% versus 40%), when focusing on complications requiring intervention under general anesthesia, there was a much higher incidence (43.4% versus 10.5%) in the dynamic group. The weighted mean rate of long-term complications was 59.4% (95% CI 0.13-1.04%, I2 = 97.7%) in the dynamic group, almost twice higher than in the adynamic group [30% (95% CI - 0.03 to 0.63), I2 = 95.8%]. Median follow-up ranged from 1 to 13 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that graciloplasty may be considered for incontinent patients. Dynamic graciloplasty may harbor higher risk for reoperation and complications compared to adynamic. The fact that the functional results between adynamic and dynamic graciloplasty are equivalent and the morbidity rate of adynamic graciloplasty is significantly lower reinforce the graciloplasty as an option to treat appropriately selected patients with fecal incontinence.

Impact of sex and aging on radiographic and functional parameters of the anal sphincter complex in patients with accidental bowel leakage

AIMS

Treatment outcomes for accidental bowel leakage (ABL) may be influenced by age-related sarcopenia. We sought to determine if thickness of the anal sphincter complex on endoanal ultrasound correlated with function in women and men with ABL and if women demonstrated age-related anal sphincter thinning.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with ABL presenting to our pelvic floor clinic from 2012 to 2017 were included. Clinical data were obtained from medical records. External anal sphincter (EAS), imaged by endoanal ultrasound at proximal, mid and distal locations, and IAS thickness were measured at 12, 3, 6, and 9 o'clock; puborectalis muscle (PRM) was measured at 4, 6, and 8 o'clock; and averaged. Anorectal manometry was conducted when clinically indicated. Data were compared using Mann-Whitney tests and linear regression. Results are reported as mean ± SD or median (IQR).

RESULTS

Women (n = 136) were younger than men (n = 26) (61 ± 13 vs. 67 ± 13 years, p = 0.02). More women than men had pelvic surgery and less had colorectal surgery, spinal disorders, or a history of smoking (p < 0.05). Eighty-two percentage of women had an anal sphincter defect versus 31% of men (p < 0.01). All anal sphincter complex components were thinner in women than men with lower squeeze and resting pressures (p < 0.03), even in nulliparous women. Mean resting pressure was lower in older 6.1 (4.6-7.8) versus younger women 8.3 (5.0-12.9) mmHg, p = 0.04.

CONCLUSIONS

Women, even nulliparous, with ABL demonstrate thinner and weaker anal sphincters than men, Aging correlated with an increase in anal sphincter thickness, suggesting that age-related changes in the intrinsic components of the anal sphincter complex associated with ABL are complex and are not always well demonstrated on endoanal ultrasound.

The relationship between fecal incontinence and food insecurity in United States women: an analysis of 2005-2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

BACKGROUND

Fecal incontinence is a prevalent debilitating pelvic floor disorder characterized by the involuntary loss of stool. Fecal incontinence is known to be associated with constipation and loose stool, advancing age, chronic comorbidities, and previous anorectal trauma, among other biologic risk factors. The relationship between social determinants of health, such as food insecurity, and fecal incontinence is not well elucidated.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the association between fecal incontinence and food insecurity using a nationally representative sample of US adult women. Our secondary aim was to examine the role of diet by assessing dietary differences between participants with and without fecal incontinence and between food-insecure women with and without fecal incontinence.

STUDY DESIGN

This study analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, a nationally representative series of cross-sectional health surveys. Fecal incontinence was defined as accidental leakage of stool within the last 30 days. Food insecurity was assessed using the household food security measure created by the US Department of Agriculture. Dietary data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey dietary interviews titled "Individual Foods, First Day" and "Individual Foods, Second Day," which estimate the foods and drinks consumed in the preceding 24 hours, were pooled. The association between fecal incontinence and food insecurity was analyzed using logistic regression after controlling for patient characteristics.

RESULTS

Overall, 3216 women were included, representing nearly 130 million US women. Of these women, 10.9% had fecal incontinence. There was no significant difference in diet between women with and without fecal incontinence (p>0.05). Food-insecure women in the overall sample reported higher carbohydrate and sugar intake and lower fiber and alcohol intake (all P<.05). Among food-insecure women, those with fecal incontinence had higher calorie and total fats intake than those without fecal incontinence; there was no significant difference in other dietary components (p>0.05). There was a significant association between food insecurity and fecal incontinence, such that women with food insecurity had higher odds of fecal incontinence after adjusting for patient characteristics and diet (odds ratio, 1.76; 95% confidence interval, 1.17-2.66; P=.008).

CONCLUSION

Food insecurity was associated with fecal incontinence even after accounting for diet. Understanding the role of social determinants of health in fecal incontinence symptomatology and treatment is important to potentially alleviate symptom burden and improve the quality of life in at-risk populations.

Characterizing the physical function decline and disabilities present among older adults with fecal incontinence: a secondary analysis of the health, aging, and body composition study

OBJECTIVE

Unhealthy aging is associated with fecal incontinence (FI) and poor physical performance. The link between FI and physical performance in older adults is unknown. We aim to examine the longitudinal relationship between FI symptoms and physical performance among older US adults.

METHODS

We analyzed a cohort of well-functioning, adults aged 70-79 years enrolled in the prospective cohort of the Health, Aging, and Body Composition study. Fecal incontinence symptoms were assessed at baseline using a validated question. Physical performance was determined by the expanded version of the Short Physical Performance Battery (HABC PBB), which includes an assessment of usual and fast walking speed and balance measures. Objective measures of physical performance were determined at baseline and year 4. Univariate and multivariate analyses compared physical performance based on presence of FI symptoms adjusting for important demographic and clinical covariates.

RESULTS

Of the 2914 participants in the Health ABC cohort, 222 (8%) had FI symptoms and 2692 (92%) did not. Mean age and BMI were 73 years and 27 kg/m2, respectively. Older adults with FI symptoms demonstrated a clinically significant decline in total HABC PBB scores from baseline to year 4 of -0.33 (95% CI: -0.41, -0.25), a statistically significant difference compared to adults without FI symptoms (-0.26 [95% CI: -0.32, -0.20]), p = 0.04. Sub-scale components demonstrated greater deficits in narrow walk speed, p = 0.03, and non-significant trend in greater deficits in repeated chair rise pace and gait speed, p ≥ 0.05.

CONCLUSIONS

Fecal incontinence symptoms are associated with clinically important declines in physical performance in older adults.

Faecal incontinence in inflammatory bowel disease: The Nancy experience

BACKGROUND

Faecal incontinence (FI) is a disabling condition in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The diagnosis of FI is not easy as patients are reluctant to report this embarrassing symptom. The objectives of this study were to characterize the prevalence of FI in IBD patients using available scoring systems, and to identify associated risk factors.

METHODS

A FI clinic was implemented in routine practice between January 2020 and April 2021. FI was defined as a Wexner score ≥5. Factors associated with FI were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 319 consecutive patients with IBD were included. The prevalence of FI was 16.4% (53/319). Age >45 years at inclusion (Odd ratio (OR)=3.33, Confidence interval (CI) 95% 1.40-7.94), diarrhea (three stools at least per day) (OR=2.94, CI 95% 1.16-7.45), stool consistency according to the Bristol stool chart (OR=2.23, CI 95% 1.00-4.99), and abdominal pain (OR=2.24, CI 95% 1.10-4.53) were independently associated with FI in a multivariate model analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Approximately one fifth of IBD patients reported FI in this real-world cohort, using an available scoring system. Increased age, diarrhea, stool consistency according to the Bristol stool chart, and abdominal pain were associated with FI. A systematic screening of FI would allow a better management of this disabling condition.

Percutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation vs Sham Stimulation for Fecal Incontinence in Women: NeurOmodulaTion for Accidental Bowel Leakage Randomized Clinical Trial

INTRODUCTION

To determine whether percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) is superior to sham stimulation for the treatment of fecal incontinence (FI) in women refractory to first-line treatments.

METHODS

Women aged 18 years or older with ≥3 months of moderate-to-severe FI that persisted after a 4-week run-in phase were randomized 2:1 (PTNS:sham stimulation) to 12 weekly 30-minute sessions in this multicenter, single-masked, controlled superiority trial. The primary outcome was change from baseline FI severity measured by St. Mark score after 12 weeks of treatment (range 0-24; minimal important difference, 3-5 points). The secondary outcomes included electronic bowel diary events and quality of life. The groups were compared using an adjusted general linear mixed model.

RESULTS

Of 199 women who entered the run-in period, 166 (of 170 eligible) were randomized, (111 in PTNS group and 55 in sham group); the mean (SD) age was 63.6 (11.6) years; baseline St. Mark score was 17.4 (2.7); and recording was 6.6 (5.5) FI episodes per week. There was no difference in improvement from baseline in St. Mark scores in the PTNS group when compared with the sham group (-5.3 vs -3.9 points, adjusted difference [95% confidence interval] -1.3 [-2.8 to 0.2]). The groups did not differ in reduction in weekly FI episodes (-2.1 vs -1.9 episodes, adjusted difference [95% confidence interval] -0.26 [-1.85 to 1.33]). Condition-specific quality of life measures did not indicate a benefit of PTNS over sham stimulation. Serious adverse events occurred in 4% of each group.

DISCUSSION

Although symptom reduction after 12 weeks of PTNS met a threshold of clinical importance, it did not differ from sham stimulation. These data do not support the use of PTNS as conducted for the treatment of FI in women.

Fecal Incontinence: Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Updated Treatment Strategies

Fecal incontinence (FI) is defined as the involuntary loss or passage of solid or liquid stool in patients. FI is a common and debilitating condition in men and women. The incidence increases with age and also often goes unreported to health care providers. It is crucial that providers ask at-risk patients about possible symptoms. Evaluation and management is tailored to specific symptoms and characteristics of the incontinence. If conservative methods fail to improve symptoms, then other surgical options are considered, such as sacral nerve stimulation and anal sphincter augmentation. This review provides an update on current and future therapies.

Patient-Reported Outcome Measures in Colorectal Surgery: Construction of Core Measures Using Open-Source Research Method

Purpose. The primary aim of the study was to review the existing literature about patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in colorectal cancer and IBD. The secondary aim was to present a road map to develop a core outcome set via opinion gathering using social media. Method. This study is the first step of a three-step project aimed at constructing simple, applicable PROMs in colorectal surgery. This article was written in a collaborative manner with authors invited both through Twitter via the #OpenSourceResearch hashtag. The 5 most used PROMs were presented and discussed as slides/images on Twitter. Inputs from a wide spectrum of participants including researchers, surgeons, physicians, nurses, patients, and patients' organizations were collected and analyzed. The final draft was emailed to all contributors and 6 patients' representatives for proofreading and approval. Results. Five PROM sets were identified and discussed: EORTC QLQ-CR29, IBDQ short health questionnaire, EORTC QLQ-C30, ED-Q5-5L, and Short Form-36. There were 315 tweets posted by 50 tweeters with 1458 retweets. Awareness about PROMs was generally limited. The general psycho-physical well-being score (GPP) was suggested and discussed, and then a survey was conducted in which more than 2/3 of voters agreed that GPP covers the most important aspects in PROMs. Conclusion. Despite the limitations of this exploratory study, it offered a new method to conduct clinical research with opportunity to engage patients. The general psycho-physical well-being score suggested as simple, applicable PROMs to be eventually combined procedure-specific, disease-specific, or symptom-specific PROMs if needed.

Sacral neuromodulation with the InterStim™ system for faecal incontinence: results from a prospective French multicentre observational study

AIM

The aim of this work was to evaluate the effectiveness, patient satisfaction and quality of life (QoL) and the safety of sacral neuromodulation (SNM) with the InterStim^TM system for the treatment of faecal incontinence (FI) and establish whether results published predominantly by expert sites are generalisable.

METHOD

This is a prospective, multicentre, observational study that invited all French sites treating FI with the InterStim™ system to enrol subjects indicated for an SNM therapy evaluation. Data were collected at three follow-up visits within 1 and 15 months. Therapeutic effectiveness was evaluated by the reduction in leakages per week and improvements over time in the ability to defer defaecation and QoL (as measured with the Faecal Incontinence Quality of Life score). Safety was assessed through reported adverse events.

RESULTS

A total of 221 subjects with a mean age of 62.1 years were tested (184 women) and 178 received a permanent implant. For all implanted subjects with diary data at baseline and follow-up, a reduction in leakage of more than 50% was observed in 80%, 76% and 83% at 1-3, 4-8 and 9-15 months, respectively. The mean number of leakage episodes and urgency improved significantly compared with the baseline (p < 0.0001). Subjects showed improvements in QoL and time to defer defaecation and were generally satisfied with their therapy. The main device-related adverse event was the requirement to undertake reprogramming (in 52% of subjects with actions following an event). The rates of infection (in 6% of subjects) and surgical revision (in 10% of subjects) were in agreement with literature reports.

CONCLUSION

This study confirms the clinical effectiveness, safety and positive effect of SNM on QoL as well as high patient satisfaction for the treatment of FI in real-life.

Enhancing the identification of anal incontinence in women of reproductive age

Anal incontinence is an unpredictable and debilitating condition that can significantly reduce quality of life. Symptoms include the involuntary loss of solid and/or liquid stool, flatus incontinence and rectal urgency. Pregnancy and childbirth are two major factors that increase the risk of anal incontinence in women of reproductive age. Women at high risk of anal incontinence include those with a known history of the condition and those who have experienced severe perineal trauma, particularly after injury to the anal sphincters (third-degree and fourth-degree tears). Routine screening for anal incontinence of women in high-risk groups during pregnancy and after childbirth appears to be limited in clinical practice. This article discusses the potential benefits of screening for anal incontinence, outlines the factors that inhibit and enable screening, describes current bowel screening tools and their limitations, and explores how the identification of anal incontinence in women of reproductive age could be improved.

Validation of a Novel Fecal Incontinence Scale: The Rapid Assessment Fecal Incontinence Score (RAFIS)

OBJECTIVE

The development and validation of a new version of the fecal incontinence (FI) scale "Rapid Assessment Fecal Incontinence Score" (RAFIS) incorporating domains for severity, type of stool loss, and global perception of the effect of incontinence on quality of life (QoL).

BACKGROUND

FI negatively impacts on QoL. Currently used incontinence questionnaires have outstanding limitations on the global assessment of the impact of the disease on QoL that patients perceive. We developed a new version of RAFIS with a more complete questionnaire.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A 3-phase study was performed to evaluate the applicability and reliability of our questionnaire as a tool for assessing FI. Our score was completed by 98 patients (78 women; mean age: 57±13 y) who presented with FI and who were referred from 4 colorectal surgery centers. The RAFIS was assessed for internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and sensitivity to change. A multivariate analysis was performed. Comparisons were made with the Wexner Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score and the Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life Scale.

RESULTS

The RAFIS showed good internal consistency and test-retest reliability, differentiating the severity of incontinence but not the etiology. There was a moderate-high correlation between the new scale and the reference scales. Sensitivity to change, compared with the Wexner Score, was moderate. Comparison with established QoL instruments showed a moderate negative correlation. Logistic regression of the RAFIS discriminated between mild and moderate-severe impact on QoL. No correlation was detected with the new score to the presence of an anal sphincter defect or sphincter hypotonia.

CONCLUSION

The RAFIS scale is easy to administer and compares well with other validated incontinence instruments.

Patient-defined goals for the treatment of fecal incontinence: a qualitative analysis among women attending a urogynecology clinic

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Fecal incontinence treatment goals are understudied and are not described for women presenting to care. Our objective was to explore patient-reported goals for fecal incontinence management among women presenting for care at a pelvic floor disorders clinic and develop a conceptual framework that captures the range of desired treatment outcomes.

METHODS

A qualitative analysis of patient-reported goals for women with fecal incontinence attending a pelvic floor disorders clinic from October 2017-November 2019 was conducted. A team-based approach was used to identify themes and emerging concepts and develop a conceptual framework.

RESULTS

One hundred patients met the inclusion criteria. Mean age was 58 ± 14 years; 67% were White and 46% non-Hispanic. Seventy-nine percent of women had diagnosis(es) of prolapse, urinary complaints, or another pelvic floor disorder. From 230 unique goals identified, five thematic categories emerged: Emotional Status, Functional Status, Concurrent Pelvic Floor Disorders, Care Seeking, and Treatment Aspirations. Thematic domains not previously represented in other qualitative work include patients' focus on treatment for global pelvic health rather than solely on fecal incontinence and treatment aspirations ranging from improvement to cure. Our model captures the close relationship between all pelvic floor disorders and emotion, which in return affects all facets of care.

CONCLUSIONS

Women with fecal incontinence report a range of treatment goals from improvement to complete resolution of symptoms. Focusing treatment on patient goals by addressing global pelvic health and negotiating realistic treatment outcomes may improve care in this population.

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.

Management of Fecal Incontinence

Nine percent of adult women experience episodes of fecal incontinence at least monthly. Fecal incontinence is more common in older women and those with chronic bowel disturbance, diabetes, obesity, prior anal sphincter injury, or urinary incontinence. Fecal incontinence negatively affects quality of life and mental health and is associated with increased risk of nursing home placement. Fewer than 30% of women with fecal incontinence seek care, and lack of information about effective solutions is an important barrier for both patients and health care professionals. Even among women with both urinary and fecal incontinence presenting for urogynecologic care, the rate of verbal disclosure of fecal incontinence symptoms remains low. This article provides an overview of the evaluation and management of fecal incontinence for the busy obstetrician-gynecologist, incorporating existing guidance from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American College of Gastroenterology, and the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons. The initial clinical evaluation of fecal incontinence requires a focused history and physical examination. Recording patient symptoms using a standard diary or questionnaire can help document symptoms and response to treatment. Invasive diagnostic testing and imaging generally are not needed to initiate treatment but may be considered in complex cases. Most women have mild symptoms that will improve with optimized stool consistency and medications. Additional treatment options include pelvic floor muscle strengthening with or without biofeedback, devices placed anally or vaginally, and surgery, including sacral neurostimulation, anal sphincteroplasty, and, for severely affected individuals for whom other interventions fail, colonic diversion.

Improvements in Self-Reported Depression Following Treatment of Fecal Incontinence with Sacral Neuromodulation

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate changes in self-reported depression after treatment of fecal incontinence (FI) with sacral neuromodulation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a subanalysis of data collected from March 2016 to October 2017 for an Institutional Review Board-approved retrospective cohort study. Demographic information, medical history, psychiatric comorbidities, and the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System item bank t-scores were extracted from the electronic medical record. The differences in t-scores were compared with a two-sided paired t-test, and a p value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Of the cohort (n = 24), most were Caucasian (88%), female (92%), nonsmokers (92%). Median age was 63.5 years (interquartile range 57.5-71.0 years) and median body mass index was 27.7 kg/m² (range 18.3-42.9 kg/m² ). A significant decrease in mean depression t-scores occurred after implantation of a sacral neuromodulation device, -4.5 (95% confidence interval [CI]: -8.7, -0.2, p = 0.04). Self-reported pain interference (p = 0.37) and physical function (p = 0.47) scores were similar following implantation. Individuals with comorbid anxiety reported the greatest improvement in depression (-6.5, 95% CI: -11.8, -1.1, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of FI with sacral neuromodulation was associated with improvement in self-reported depression with the greatest improvement in those with anxiety. Further prospective research is needed to corroborate these findings.

Accidental Bowel Leakage Evaluation: A New Patient-Centered Validated Measure of Accidental Bowel Leakage Symptoms in Women

BACKGROUND

Questionnaires assessing accidental bowel leakage lack important patient-centered symptoms.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to create a valid measure of accidental bowel leakage symptoms.

DESIGN

We previously created a conceptual framework capturing patient-centered accidental bowel leakage symptoms. The framework included bowel leakage type, severity and bother, and ancillary bowel symptoms, including predictability, awareness, leakage control, emptying disorders, and discomfort.

SETTINGS

The study was conducted in outpatient clinics.

PATIENTS

Women with at least monthly accidental bowel leakage were included.

INTERVENTIONS

Participants completed the Accidental Bowel Leakage Evaluation at baseline and 12 and 24 weeks, as well as bowel diaries and other validated pelvic floor questionnaires. A subset completed items twice before treatment. Final item selection was based on psychometric properties and clinical importance.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Psychometric analyses included Cronbach α, confirmatory factor, and item response theory analyses. Construct validity was based on correlations with measures of similar constructs.

RESULTS

A total of 296 women completed baseline items, and 70 provided test-retest data. The cohort was predominately white (79%) and middle aged (64 ± 11 y). Confirmatory factor analyses supported the conceptual framework. The final 18-item scale demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach α = 0.77-0.90) and test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation = 0.80). Construct validity was demonstrated with baseline and 12- and 24-week scale scores, which correlated with the Vaizey (r = 0.52, 0.68, and 0.69), Colorectal Anal Distress Inventory (r = 0.54, 0.65, 0.71), Colorectal Anal Impact Questionnaire (r = 0.48, 0.53, 0.53), and hygiene (r = 0.39, 0.43, 0.49) and avoidance subscales scores of the adaptive index (r = 0.45, 0.44, 0.43) and average number of pad changes per day on bowel diaries (r = 0.35, 0.38, 0.31; all p < 0.001).

LIMITATIONS

The study was limited by nature of involving validation in a care-seeking population.

CONCLUSIONS

The Accidental Bowel Leakage Evaluation instrument is a reliable, patient-centered measure with good validity properties. This instrument improves on currently available measures by adding patient-important domains of predictability, awareness, control, emptying, and discomfort. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B172. EVALUACIóN DE FUGA INTESTINAL ACCIDENTAL: UNA NUEVA MEDIDA VALIDADA Y CENTRADA EN PACIENTES FEMENINOS CON SíNTOMAS DE FUGA INTESTINAL ACCIDENTAL: Los cuestionarios que evalúan la fuga intestinal accidental, carecen de síntomas centrados en el paciente.Nuestro objetivo fue crear una medida válida de síntomas de fuga intestinal accidental.Previamente creamos un marco conceptual centrado en el paciente, para capturar síntomas de fuga intestinal accidental. El marco incluía tipo de fuga intestinal, gravedad, molestia, y síntomas intestinales auxiliares, incluyendo previsibilidad, conciencia, control de fugas, trastornos de vaciado e incomodidad.Clínicas de pacientes externos.Mujeres con al menos una fuga intestinal accidental mensual.Las participantes completaron la Evaluación de Fuga Intestinal Accidental al inicio del estudio y a las 12 y 24 semanas, así como diarios intestinales y otros cuestionarios validados del piso pélvico. Un subconjunto completó los elementos dos veces antes del tratamiento. La selección final del elemento se basó en las propiedades psicométricas y la importancia clínica.Los análisis psicométricos incluyeron el Alfa de Cronbach, factor confirmatorio y análisis de la teoría de respuesta al elemento. La validez de constructo se basó en correlaciones con medidas de constructos similares.Un total de 296 mujeres completaron los elementos de referencia y 70 proporcionaron datos de test-retest. La cohorte fue predominantemente blanca (79%) y de mediana edad (64 +/- 11 años). Análisis factorial confirmatorio respaldó el marco conceptual. La escala final de 18 elementos, demostró una buena consistencia interna (Alfa de Cronbach = 0,77-0,90) y fiabilidad test-retest (correlación intraclase = 0,80). La validez de constructo se demostró con puntajes de escala de referencia de 12 y 24 semanas que se correlacionaron con Vaizey (r = 0,52, 0,68 y 0,69), Inventario de Ansiedad colorecto anal (r = 0,54, 0,65, 0,71), Cuestionarios de Impacto colorecto anal (r = 0,48, 0,53, 0,53) e higiene (r = 0,39, 0,43, 0,49), puntuaciones de subescalas de evitación del índice adaptativo (r = 0,45, 0,44, 0,43), número promedio de cambios de almohadilla por día, de los diarios intestinales (r = 0.35, 0.38, 0.31), todos p <.001.Validación de una población en busca de atención.El instrumento de Evaluación de Fuga Intestinal Accidental es una medida confiable, centrada en el paciente y con buenas propiedades de validez. Este instrumento mejora las medidas actualmente disponibles, al agregar dominios importantes para el paciente de previsibilidad, conciencia, control, vaciado e incomodidad. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B172. (Traducción-Dr. Fidel Ruiz Healy).

The mysteries of menopause and urogynecologic health: clinical and scientific gaps

OBJECTIVES

A significant body of knowledge implicates menopausal estrogen levels in the pathogenesis of the common pelvic floor disorders (PFDs). These health conditions substantially decrease quality of life, increase depression, social isolation, caregiver burden, and economic costs to the individuals and society.

METHODS

This review summarizes the epidemiology of the individual PFDs with particular attention to the understanding of the relationship between each PFD and menopausal estrogen levels, and the gaps in science and clinical care that affect menopausal women. In addition, we review the epidemiology of recurrent urinary tract infection (rUTI)-a condition experienced frequently and disproportionately by menopausal women and hypothesized to be potentiated by menopausal estrogen levels.

RESULTS

The abundance of estrogen receptors in the urogenital tract explains why the natural reduction of endogenous estrogen, the hallmark of menopause, can cause or potentiate PFDs and rUTIs. A substantial body of epidemiological literature suggests an association between menopause, and PFDs and rUTIs; however, the ability to separate this association from age and other comorbid conditions makes it difficult to draw definitive conclusions on the role of menopause alone in the development and/or progression of PFDs. Similarly, the causative link between the decline in endogenous estrogen levels and the pathogenesis of PFDs and rUTIs has not been well-established.

CONCLUSIONS

Innovative human studies, focused on the independent effects of menopausal estrogen levels, uncoupled from tissue and cellular senescence, are needed.

ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 210: Fecal Incontinence

Fecal incontinence, or the involuntary leakage of solid or loose stool, is estimated to affect 7-15% of community-dwelling women (1). It is associated with reduced quality of life, negative psychologic effects, and social stigma (2), yet many women do not report their symptoms or seek treatment. Less than 3% of women who do self-report fecal incontinence will have this diagnosis recorded in their medical record (3). Obstetrician-gynecologists are in a unique position to identify women with fecal incontinence because pregnancy, childbirth, obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS), and pelvic floor dysfunction are important risk factors that contribute to fecal incontinence in women. The purpose of this Practice Bulletin is to provide evidence-based guidelines on the screening, evaluation, and management of fecal incontinence to help obstetrician-gynecologists diagnose the condition and provide conservative treatment or referral for further work up and surgical management when appropriate. For discussion on fecal incontinence associated with OASIS, see Practice Bulletin No. 198, Prevention and Management of Obstetric Lacerations at Vaginal Delivery (4).

Efficacy of Supervised Pelvic Floor Muscle Training and Biofeedback vs Attention-Control Treatment in Adults With Fecal Incontinence

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) in combination with conservative treatment is recommended as first-line treatment for patients with fecal incontinence, although its efficacy is unclear. We investigated whether supervised PFMT in combination with conservative treatment is superior to attention-control massage treatment and conservative treatment in adults with fecal incontinence.

METHODS

We performed a randomized, controlled, superiority trial of patients with fecal incontinence at a tertiary care center at a public hospital in Denmark. Ninety-eight adults with fecal incontinence were randomly assigned to groups that received supervised PFMT and biofeedback plus conservative treatment or attention-control treatment plus conservative treatment. The primary outcome was rating of symptom changes, after 16 weeks, based on scores from the Patient Global Impression of Improvement scale. Secondary outcomes were changes in the Vaizey incontinence score (Vaizey Score), Fecal Incontinence Severity Index, and Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life Scale.

RESULTS

In the intention-to-treat analysis, participants in the PFMT group were significantly more likely to report improvement in incontinence symptoms based on Patient Global Impression of Improvement scale scores (unadjusted odds ratio, 5.16; 95% CI, 2.18-12.19; P = .0002). The PFMT group had a larger reduction in the mean Vaizey Score (reduction, -1.83 points; 95% CI, -3.57 to -0.08; P = .04). There were no significant differences in condition-specific quality of life. In the per-protocol analyses, the superiority of PFMT was increased. No adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

This randomized controlled trial of adults with fecal incontinence provides support for a superior effect of supervised PFMT in combination with conservative treatment compared with attention-control massage treatment and conservative treatment. We found that participants who received supervised PFMT had 5-fold higher odds of reporting improvements in fecal incontinence symptoms and had a larger mean reduction of incontinence severity based on the Vaizey Score compared with attention control massage treatment. Clinicaltrials.gov no: NCT01705535.

Relationships between the results of anorectal investigations and symptom severity in patients with faecal incontinence

PURPOSE

Anorectal dysfunction is the focus of diagnostic investigations for faecal incontinence. However, severity of incontinence and anorectal investigation results can be discordant. The aim of this study was to define the relationships between anorectal investigation results and incontinence severity to determine which measures, if any, were predictive of incontinence severity.

METHODS

Patients presenting for investigation of faecal incontinence completed a symptom questionnaire, anorectal manometry, rectal sensation, pudendal nerve terminal motor latency, and endoanal ultrasound. Bivariate analyses were conducted between the Jorge-Wexner score and investigation results. Subgroup analyses were performed for gender and symptom subtypes (urge, passive, mixed). A multiple regression analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Five hundred and thirty-eight patients were included. There were weak correlations between the Jorge-Wexner score and maximal squeeze pressure [r = - 0.24, 95%CI(- 0.31, - 0.16), p < 0.001], and resting pressure [r = - 0.18, (95%CI(- 0.26, - 0.10), p < 0.001]. In men only, there were significant associations between the Jorge-Wexner score and endoanal sonography [IAS defects: t(113) = - 2.26, p = 0.03, d = 0.58, 95%CI(- 4.38, - 0.29)] and rectal sensation (MTV: r_s = - 0.24, 95%CI(- 0.41, - 0.06), p = 0.01). No substantial differences were observed in the urge/passive/mixed subgroup analyses. Multiple regression analysis included three variables: age (β = 0.02, p = 0.17), maximal resting pressure (β = - 0.01, p = 0.28), and maximal squeeze pressure (β = - 0.01, p < 0.01). The variance in the Jorge-Wexner score accounted for by this model was < 10%, (R² = 0.07, p = < 0.01, adjusted R² = 0.06).

CONCLUSION

Anorectal investigations cannot predict the severity of faecal incontinence. This may be due to limitations of diagnostic modalities, the heterogeneity of anorectal dysfunction in these patients, or contributing factors which are extrinsic to the anorectum.

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

Fecal Incontinence Symptoms and Impact in Older Versus Younger Women Seeking Care

BACKGROUND

The differential impact of aging on fecal incontinence symptom severity and condition-specific quality of life remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to characterize differences in symptom distress, quality of life, and anorectal physiology assessments in older versus younger women with fecal incontinence.

DESIGN

This was a cross-sectional study.

SETTINGS

This study was conducted at a tertiary genitorectal disorder clinic.

PATIENTS

Women presenting for fecal incontinence evaluation between 2003 and 2016 were classified as older or younger based on age ≥65 or <65 years.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The main outcomes were symptom-specific quality of life and distress measured by validated questionnaires (the Modified Manchester Health Questionnaire containing the Fecal Incontinence Severity Index); anorectal physiology and anatomy were assessed by manometry and endoanal ultrasound.

RESULTS

Of 879 subjects, 286 and 593 were classified as older and younger (mean ages, 71.4 ± 5.3 y and 51.3 ± 10.5 y). Solid stool leakage was more frequent in older women (83.2% vs 76.7%; p = 0.03), whereas liquid stool leakage (83.2% vs 82.8%; p = 0.88) and fecal urgency (76.9% vs 78.8%; p = 0.54) did not differ between groups. Mean symptom severity scores were similar between groups (28.0 ± 11.9 and 27.6 ± 13.5; p = 0.69); however, there was greater negative impact on quality of life among younger women (46.3 ± 22.0 vs 51.8 ± 21.8; p < 0.01). Multivariable linear regression controlling for pertinent covariates revealed younger age as an independent predictor for worse condition-specific quality-of-life scores (p < 0.01). Squeeze pressures were similar between groups, whereas younger women had greater resting pressures and higher rates of sphincter defects (external, 7.7% vs 20.2%; internal, 12.2% vs 26.8%; both p < 0.01).

LIMITATIONS

This study was limited by its lack of patient obstetric history and the duration of their incontinence symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Characteristics differ between older and younger women seeking care for fecal incontinence. The differential impact and age-related phenotypes may provide useful information for patient counseling and developing management algorithms for women with fecal incontinence. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A910.

Anal incontinence after caesarean and vaginal delivery in Sweden: a national population-based study

BACKGROUND

Elective caesarean delivery is increasing rapidly in many countries, and one of the reasons might be that caesarean delivery is widely believed to protect against pelvic floor disorders, including anal incontinence. Previous studies on this issue have been small and with conflicting results. The aim of present study was to compare the risk of developing anal incontinence in women who had a caesarean delivery, in those who had a vaginal delivery, and in two age-matched control groups (nulliparous women and men).

METHODS

In this observational population-based study, we included all women in the Swedish Medical Birth Register who gave birth by caesarean delivery or vaginal delivery during 1973-2015 in Sweden and were diagnosed with anal incontinence according to ICD 8-10 in the Swedish National Patient Register during 2001-15. Exclusion criteria were multiple birth delivery, mixed vaginal and caesarean delivery, and four or more deliveries. We compared the diagnosis of anal incontinence between women previously delivered solely by caesarean delivery and those who solely had delivered vaginally. We also compared it with two age-matched control groups of nulliparous women and men from the Swedish Total Population Register. Finally, we analysed risk factors for anal incontinence in the caesarean delivery and vaginal delivery groups.

FINDINGS

3 755 110 individuals were included in the study. Between 1973 and 2015, 185 219 women had a caesarean delivery only and 1 400 935 delivered vaginally only. 416 (0·22 %) of the 185 219 women in the caesarean delivery group were diagnosed with anal incontinence compared with 5171 (0·37%) of 1 400 935 women in the vaginal delivery group. The odds ratio (OR) for being diagnosed with anal incontinence after vaginal delivery compared with caesarean delivery was 1·65 (95% CI 1·49-1·82; p<0·0001). When the combination vaginal delivery and caesarean delivery was compared with the nulliparous control group, the OR of being diagnosed with anal incontinence was 2·05 (1·92-2·19; p<0·0001). For the nulliparous women compared with men, the OR for anal incontinence was 1·89 (1·75-2·05; p<0·0001). The strongest risk factors for anal incontinence after vaginal delivery were high maternal age, high birthweight of the child, and instrumental delivery. The only risk factor for anal incontinence after caesarean delivery was maternal age.

INTERPRETATION

The risk of developing anal incontinence increases after pregnancy and delivery. Women with known risk factors for anal incontinence should perhaps be offered a more qualified post-partum examination to enable early intervention in case of injury. Further knowledge for optimal management are needed.

FUNDING

County Council of Jämtland.

Practice patterns in the diagnosis and treatment of fecal incontinence with sacral neuromodulation: Can urologists impact this gap in care?

OBJECTIVE

The prevalence of fecal incontinence (FI) is 8% in the United States. Many patients will not seek treatment and the condition is underdiagnosed. Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) is effective in treating FI, and so urologists can play a key role in its treatment. We examine the practice patterns and treatment of FI with SNM in our institution.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The electronic medical record was queried for the proportion of patients seen for FI in the institution, the urology department, and among the female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery (FPMRS) urologists. The patients who underwent SNM for FI were evaluated for progression to second stage procedure.

RESULTS

The proportion of patients seen for FI is 0.96% in the institution as a whole, 7.9% in the urology department, and 17.9% among FPMRS urologists. Fourteen patients underwent first stage SNM for FI or dual urinary/fecal incontinence, and they all progressed to a second stage procedure. Thirteen of these were performed by FPMRS urologists.

CONCLUSION

In our institution, the proportion of patients seen for FI was lower than the prevalence of this condition. Because patients with urinary incontinence are more likely to have FI, urologists are in a unique position to identify these patients and offer treatment that can improve their quality of life. We acknowledge a gap in care of the patients with FI and an opportunity for urologists to help patients with this devastating yet treatable condition.

Double incontinence: associated factors and impact on the quality of life of women attended at a health referral service

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the prevalence, associated factors, and impact on quality of life of double incontinence in a group of women with urinary incontinence. Method: A cross-sectional study was performed, including female patients with urinary or double incontinence (urinary and fecal incontinence) treated at a tertiary hospital from the public healthcare system. Information about sociodemographic and clinical characteristics was collected, and quality of life was assessed using validated questionnaires. The Mann-Whitney, Chi-square, and Fisher tests were used to evaluate the association between the variables and the types of dysfunction (urinary or double incontinence) and a worse general health perception. Results: Of 227 incontinent women included in the study, 120 (52,9%) were older individuals. The prevalence of double incontinence was 14.1% (32 patients). Double incontinence was associated with a higher number of comorbidities (p-value=0.04), polypharmacy (p-value=0.04), and rectocele (p-valor=0.02). Higher BMI (p-value=0.02) and number of comorbidities (p-value=0.05), but not double incontinence (p-value=0.36), were associated with low general health perception scores. Conclusion: the prevalence of double incontinence was different from other studies conducted in similar scenarios. The group of women included in the study presented low general health perception scores, but this was not associated with the presence of double incontinence. A higher number of comorbidities was associated with both double incontinence and a lower general health perception.

If We Don't Ask, They Won't Tell: Screening for Urinary and Fecal Incontinence by Primary Care Providers

BACKGROUND

More than half of older adults experience urinary (UI) or fecal incontinence (FI), but the majority have never discussed symptoms with health care providers. Little is known about primary care providers' (PCPs') screening for UI and FI.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional electronic survey of PCPs within a Midwest academic institution to ascertain and compare PCPs' beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors regarding screening and treatment for UI and FI; determine factors associated with screening for FI; and identify potential barriers to and facilitators of FI screening and treatment.

RESULTS

Among 154 PCPs, the screening rate for UI (75%) was more than double that for FI (35%; P < .001). PCPs believed that both UI and FI screening were important but felt better informed to treat UI (P < .001). Screening for FI was associated with UI screening (OR, 11.27; 95% CI, 4.9-26.0; P < .001); feeling informed to treat FI (OR, 10.21; 95% CI, 1.2-90.0; P = .01); screening verbally (OR, 3.9; 95% CI, 1.9-8.0; P < .001); perceiving screening as important (OR, 3.7; 95% CI, 1.8-7.4; P < .001); using the term, "accidental bowel leakage" (OR, 2.9; 95% CI, 1.2-6.7; P = .02) or "bowel control issues" (OR, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.1-4.5; P = .03); and being a resident (OR, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.16-0.82; P = .02). PCPs reported high interest in patient and provider educational materials about UI and FI.

CONCLUSIONS

Most PCPs screen for UI but not FI. High reported interest in educational materials, coupled with high reported rates of perceived importance of screening for UI and FI, suggests that PCPs welcome informative interventions to streamline diagnosis and treatment.

Development and Validation of a Quantitative Measure of Adaptive Behaviors in Women With Pelvic Floor Disorders

PURPOSE

To establish validity for the Pelvic Floor Disorders Network (PFDN) self-administered Adaptive Behavior Index (ABI) and to assess whether ABI assesses known discordance between severity of pelvic floor symptoms and self-reported bother.

METHODS

In addition to the ABI questionnaire, participants in 1 of 6 Pelvic Floor Disorders Network trials completed condition-specific measures of pretreatment symptom severity (including Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory; PFDI) and health-related quality of life (Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire; PFIQ). The final survey was developed from an iterative process using subject and expert endorsement, factor analyses, and response distributions. Domains were created using a development cohort (n = 304 women), reliability and validity were established using a validation cohort (n = 596 women), and test-retest reliability was assessed (n = 111 women).

RESULTS

Factor analyses supported an 11-item avoidance domain and a 6-item hygiene domain. Cronbach' alphas were 0.88 and 0.68, respectively. Test-retest reliability was 0.84 for both domains. Construct validity was demonstrated in correlations between the ABI domains and baseline PFDI and PFIQ (r values, 0.43-0.79 with all P values <0.0001). Moreover, the ABI accounted for 8% to 26% of unexplained variance between the symptoms severity measure and the impact on health related quality of life. After treatment, avoidance domain scores improved for urinary and fecal incontinence groups and hygiene scores improved for the fecal incontinence group.

CONCLUSIONS

The ABI is a reliable and valid measure in women with pelvic floor disorders. Adaptive behaviors account in part for discordance between pelvic floor symptom severity and bother.

Prevalence of anal incontinence in a working population within a healthcare environment

OBJECTIVES

Anal incontinence is a devastating affliction with several considerations that make it difficult to define in terms of epidemiology with good precision. The aim of the present work is to study the prevalence of an important disorder such as anal incontinence in a healthy working population within a sanitary environment.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A cluster of easy understanding and filling inquiry forms are distributed to 910 apparently healthy individuals at our hospital. This questionnaires include filiation data, passed medical history, presence or not of Incontinence and other symptoms such as urgency. The Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score is also registered.

RESULTS

Anal incontinence is present in a 21.2% of subjects when considered in any of it forms (flatus, liquid or solid faeces). A Clevleand Clinic Incontinence Score higher than 6 was obtained in a 7.3% of the sample and higher than 10 in 1.2%. No gender predominance has been identified. A slightly higher severity is recognised with increasing age. Obstetric and anal surgical background are the only related factors identified in the studied sample.

CONCLUSIONS

Faecal incontinence is a high prevalent affliction, even among apparently healthy population. Considering the aetiologic factors that have been established, prevention during obstetric and anal surgical procedures is absolutely mandatory.

Faecal incontinence: a narrative review of clinic-based management for the general gynaecologist

The objective of this article is to provide an informative and narrative review for the general Gynaecologist regarding the pathophysiology and conservative treatments available for faecal incontinence (FI). A PubMed search was performed by library staff and an author using the keywords: anal incontinence, faecal incontinence, accidental bowel leakage, outpatient clinic management of faecal incontinence and defecatory dysfunction. As the social limitations of FI can be devastating and long-term patient satisfaction rates after anal sphincteroplasty remain reportedly-low, the role of clinic-based management of FI has continued to grow. The purpose of this article is to provide the Obstetrician and Gynaecologist with a basic template for screening, evaluation and management of faecal incontinence in the clinical setting.

Validation of Risk Factors for Fecal Incontinence in Patients With Crohn's Disease

BACKGROUND

Fecal incontinence has a great impact on daily life, and many patients are reluctant to report it.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of fecal incontinence in patients with Crohn's disease, validate risk factors, and relate outcome with quality of life.

DESIGN

The design was cross-sectional.

SETTINGS

The study was conducted at an academic tertiary center.

PATIENTS

Consecutive patients with Crohn's disease treated between 2003 and 2013 were included in this study.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

A questionnaire was sent out in October 2013 to evaluate perianal disease, current symptoms of fecal incontinence, and its impact on quality of life (Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life questionnaire). Risk factors were validated with univariate and multivariate analyses.

RESULTS

The questionnaire was responded by 325 (62%) of 528 patients. Median age was 42 years (range, 18-91 y), 215 (66%) were women, and a diagnosis of Crohn's disease was established for a median period of 12 years (interquartile range, 6-21 y). Fecal incontinence was reported by 65 patients (20%). Fecal incontinence was associated with liquid stools (p = 0.0001), previous IBD-related bowel resections (p = 0.001), stricturing behavior of disease (p = 0.02), and perianal disease (p = 0.03). Quality of life (lifestyle, coping, depression, and embarrassment) was poor in patients with fecal incontinence, particularly in patients with more frequent episodes of incontinence.

LIMITATIONS

There was no correction for disease activity in the multivariate regression analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of fecal incontinence in a tertiary population with Crohn's disease is substantially higher than in the community-dwelling population. Considering the reduced quality of life in incontinent patients, active questioning to identify fecal incontinence is recommended in those with liquid stools, perianal disease, or previous (intestinal or perianal) surgery. See Video Abstract at http://journals.lww.com/dcrjournal/Pages/videogallery.aspx.

Supervised pelvic floor muscle training versus attention-control massage treatment in patients with faecal incontinence: Statistical analysis plan for a randomised controlled trial

Introduction

Faecal incontinence affects approximately 8–9% of the adult population. The condition is surrounded by taboo; it can have a devastating impact on quality of life and lead to major limitations in daily life. Pelvic floor muscle training in combination with information and fibre supplements is recommended as first-line treatment for faecal incontinence. Despite this, the effect of pelvic floor muscle training for faecal incontinence is unclear. No previous trials have investigated the efficacy of supervised pelvic floor muscle training in combination with conservative treatment and compared this to an attention-control massage treatment including conservative treatment. The aim of this trial is to investigate if 16 weeks of supervised pelvic floor muscle training in combination with conservative treatment is superior to attention-control massage treatment and conservative treatment in patients with faecal incontinence.

Design

Randomised, controlled, superiority trial with two parallel arms.

Methods

100 participants with faecal incontinence will be randomised to either (1) individually supervised pelvic floor muscle training and conservative treatment or (2) attention-control massage treatment and conservative treatment. The primary outcome is participants' rating of symptom changes after 16 weeks of treatment using the Patient Global Impression of Improvement Scale. Secondary outcomes are the Vaizey Incontinence Score, the Fecal Incontinence Severity Index, the Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life Scale, a 14-day bowel diary, anorectal manometry and rectal capacity measurements. Follow-up assessment at 36 months will be conducted.

Discussion

This paper describes and discusses the rationale, the methods and in particular the statistical analysis plan of this trial.

Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Options for Fecal Incontinence

Fecal incontinence (FI), defined as the involuntary loss of solid or liquid feces through the anus is a prevalent condition with significant effects on quality of life. FI can affect individuals of all ages and in many cases greatly impairs quality of life but, incontinent patients should not accept their debility as either inevitable or untreatable. The severity of incontinence can range from unintentional elimination of flatus to the complete evacuation of bowel contents. It is reported to affect up to 18% of the population, with a prevalence reaching as high as 50% in nursing home residents. However, FI is often underreported, thus obscuring its true prevalence in the general population. The options for treatment vary according to the degree and severity of the FI. Treatment can include dietary and lifestyle modification, certain medications, biofeedback therapy, bulking agent injections, sacral nerve stimulation as well as various types of surgery. In this article, we aim to provide a comprehensive review on the diagnosis and management of FI.

Validation of an instrument to assess barriers to care-seeking for accidental bowel leakage in women: the BCABL questionnaire

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Fewer than 30% of women with accidental bowel leakage (ABL) seek care, despite the existence of effective, minimally invasive therapies. We developed and validated a condition-specific instrument to assess barriers to care-seeking for ABL in women.

METHODS

Adult women with ABL completed an electronic survey about condition severity, patient activation, previous care-seeking, and demographics. The Barriers to Care-seeking for Accidental Bowel Leakage (BCABL) instrument contained 42 potential items completed at baseline and again 2 weeks later. Paired t tests evaluated test-retest reliability. Factor analysis evaluated factor structure and guided item retention. Cronbach's alpha evaluated internal consistency. Within and across factor item means generated a summary BCABL score used to evaluate scale validity with six external criterion measures.

RESULTS

Among 1,677 click-throughs, 736 (44%) entered the survey; 95% of eligible female respondents (427 out of 458) provided complete data. Fifty-three percent of respondents had previously sought care for their ABL; median age was 62 years (range 27-89); mean Vaizey score was 12.8 (SD = 5.0), indicating moderate to severe ABL. Test-retest reliability was excellent for all items. Factor extraction via oblique rotation resulted in the final structure of 16 items in six domains, within which internal consistency was high. All six external criterion measures correlated significantly with BCABL score.

CONCLUSIONS

The BCABL questionnaire, with 16 items mapping to six domains, has excellent criterion validity and test-retest reliability when administered electronically in women with ABL. The BCABL can be used to identify care-seeking barriers for ABL in different populations, inform targeted interventions, and measure their effectiveness.

Psychometric evaluation of an online and paper accidental bowel leakage questionnaire: The ICIQ-B questionnaire

AIMS

To evaluate the psychometric properties of an online versus paper US-English version of the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Bowel (ICIQ-B).

METHODS

The ICIQ-B includes 17 items under 3 domains: bowel pattern (5 items), bowel control (7 items), and quality of life (5 items). We recruited community-dwelling adults seeking treatment for ≥monthly bowel leakage from specialty clinics within a VA medical center and university affiliate. An online versus paper version was evaluated at baseline, 2 weeks later, and 3 months after nonsurgical treatments per usual care. We assessed test-retest reliability (Pearson correlations) at 2 weeks, internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha), and convergent validity (Pearson correlations). Sensitivity to change was the difference between the baseline and post-treatment (3-month) scores.

RESULTS

Mean age was 58.0 ± 11.9; 36% Veterans, 52% women. At baseline, 2 weeks, and 3 months, we found no differences in the online vs paper scores for the bowel control and quality of life domains. The ICIQ-B demonstrated fair internal consistency for the bowel pattern domain (Cronbach's α = 0.36-0.54). Internal consistency on the bowel pattern domain was better with the paper version than the online version at 2 weeks (P < 0.05) and 3 months (P < 0.01) with no difference at baseline. All other domains had good internal consistency (Cronbach's α > 0.80), good retest reliability (r ≥ 0.70, P < 0.001), domain-specific convergent validity for stool consistency (P < 0.05), incontinence severity (P ≤ 0.002), and quality of life impact (P < 0.05). After nonsurgical treatments, we found a reasonable response to change (P ≤ 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Online and paper versions had robust psychometric data for use among U.S. men and women, including Veterans. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:166-170, 2017. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Current surgical strategies to treat fecal incontinence

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

The Differential Impact of Flatal Incontinence in Women With Anal Versus Fecal Incontinence

OBJECTIVE

The differential impact on quality of life (QOL) that leakage of both stool and flatus confers on women compared with stool only is unclear. Our aim was to characterize differences in symptom distress, impact on QOL, and anorectal testing among women with leakage of stool and flatus, stool only, and flatus only.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted of women undergoing evaluation of at least monthly bowel incontinence symptoms. Subjects were divided into the following 3 groups: liquid/solid stool and flatus (anal incontinence [AI]), liquid/solid stool only (fecal incontinence [FI]), and flatal only (FL). Baseline assessment included the Modified Manchester Health Questionnaire (MMHQ) including the Fecal Incontinence Severity Index (FISI), Short Form-12 (SF-12), as well as anorectal manometry and endoanal ultrasound evaluations.

RESULTS

Of 436 subjects, 381 had AI, 45 FI, and 10 FL. Significant between-group differences were noted in MMHQ (P = 0.0002) and FISI total scores (P < 0.0001) where women with AI reflected greater negative impact than women with FI. The Short Form-12 (mental and physical component summary scores) scores were similar in all 3 groups (P = 0.22, 0.08). Resting/squeeze pressures were significantly lower in AI and FI groups compared with FL (P = 0.0004), whereas rectal capacity was similar in all 3 groups. Although exploratory, MMHQ scores were similar between FI and FL groups, although FISI scores were higher in the FI group (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Women with AI have higher symptom specific distress and greater negative impact on QOL compared with women with FI. Treatment of all bowel incontinence symptoms is important to improve symptom-specific and general QOL.

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.

Management of fecal incontinence - focus on a vaginal insert for bowel control

Fecal incontinence, also referred to as accidental bowel leakage, is a debilitating condition that impacts quality of life in a significant number of women. Current treatments for fecal incontinence include behavioral modification, biofeedback, drug therapy, and invasive surgical procedures. However, these treatments have suboptimal efficacy due to patient adherence, variability of presentation across patients, cost, and additional health risks. A vaginal bowel control system (Eclipse™ System) was developed to offer a low-risk, effective, and patient-managed approach to treating accidental bowel leakage. The vaginal bowel control system consists of a vaginal insert and user-controlled, pressure-regulated pump. Once inflated, the balloon of the vaginal insert is directed posteriorly to occlude the rectum, allowing the woman to immediately regain control of bowel function. This article will introduce the design evolution and feasibility studies of the Eclipse System. In addition, this review will discuss the results from a recent clinical trial that demonstrated the safety and efficacy of the vaginal bowel control system in managing fecal incontinence and other symptoms of bowel dysfunction.