Electrophysiological Basis of Fecal Incontinence and Its Implications for Treatment

Abstract

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

Keywords: Biofeedback; Electrophysiology; Incontinence; Neosphincter; Sacral nerve stimulation.

Fig. 1. Schematic diagram of the innervation of the rectum and anal canal. Reprinted from Weledji et al. Int J Surg Res 2014;3:7-14, with permission of Scientific & Academic Publishing [12].