Recent concepts in fecal incontinence.
Fecal incontinence is an inability to defer release of gas or stool from the anus and rectum by mechanisms of voluntary control. It is an important medical disorder affecting the quality of life of more than 2% of the US population. The most common contributing factors include previous vaginal deliveries, pelvic or perineal trauma, previous anorectal surgery, and rectal prolapse. Many physicians lack experience and knowledge related to pelvic floor incontinence disorders, but advancing technology has improved this knowledge. Increased experience with endoanal ultrasound and endoanal magnetic resonance imaging have given us better understanding of the anatomy of the anal canal, and new techniques with muscle translocation and artificial neosphincters and neuromodulation have expanded our armamentarium of options for restoring continence.
Douglas
J M
JM
Section of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Washington Hospital Center, 110 Irving Street NW, Suite 3B-31, Washington, DC 20010, USA.
Smith
L E
LE
D000368:Aged; D001676:Biofeedback, Psychology; D019841:Defecography / Q000379:methods; D013505:Digestive System Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods; D004599:Electric Stimulation Therapy / Q000379:methods; D005242:Fecal Incontinence / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008139:Loperamide / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008365:Manometry; D008875:Middle Aged; D011379:Prognosis; D012002:Rectal Diseases / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis; D012005:Rectal Prolapse / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D008139:Loperamide