Controversies in fecal incontinence

Abstract

Fecal incontinence is a common condition that can significantly impact patients' quality of life. Obstetric anal sphincter injury and anorectal surgeries are common etiologies. Endoanal ultrasound and anorectal manometry are important diagnostic tools for evaluating patients. There are various treatment options, including diet, lifestyle modifications, drugs, biofeedback therapy, tibial and sacral nerve neuromodulation therapy, and surgery. In this editorial, we will discuss current controversies and novel approaches to fecal incontinence. Screening for asymptomatic anal sphincter defects after obstetric anal sphincter injury and in patients with inflammatory bowel disease is not generally recommended, but may be helpful in selected patients. The Garg incontinence score is a new score that includes the assessment of solid, liquid, flatus, mucous, stress and urge fecal incontinence. Novel tests such as translumbosacral anorectal magnetic stimulation and novel therapies such as translumbosacral neuromodulation therapy are promising diagnostic and treatment options, for both fecal incontinence and neuropathy. Home biofeedback therapy can overcome some limitations of the office-based therapy. Skeletal muscle-derived cell implantation of the external anal sphincter has been further studied as a possible treatment option. Sacral neuromodulation may be useful in scleroderma, congenital fecal incontinence and inflammatory bowel disease but merits further study.

Keywords: Anal sphincter defects; Biofeedback; Endoanal ultrasound; Fecal incontinence; Neuropathy; Sacral neuromodulation.