Fecal incontinence in older patients. A narrative review

Abstract

Fecal incontinence is one of the leading causes for the institutionalization of people in the last decades of life, associated with a great psychosocial and economic burden. The literature is scarce in this population group, due to the absence of universally accepted criteria to define "elderly patients" and difficulties in detection and diagnostic. The aim of this article was to conduct a narrative review of the main aspects related to fecal incontinence in older patients, providing management support. Toileting assistance, dietary change, controlling stool consistency and medical treatment can be used to treat these patients. Nevertheless, other therapies, such as biofeedback, neuromodulation or surgical treatment, can be considered in selected patients.

Keywords: Anciano; Conservative treatment; Elderly; Fecal impaction; Fecal incontinence; Impactación fecal; Incontinencia fecal; Surgical treatment; Tratamiento conservador; Tratamiento quirúrgico.