title: Fecal incontinence.
abstract: The treatment of fecal incontinence is particularly gratifying because the loss of fecal control has a devastating effect on a patients lifestyle. One must consider the myriad factors that influence bowel control to properly diagnose and treat each patient. Physiology testing, particularly the use of ultrasound, is essential when treatment extends beyond dietary and medical management. Recent reports suggest that the success of typical treatments may diminish with time. This may indicate a greater need in the future for innovative options such as the artificial bowel sphincter or sacral stimulation.
authors.affiliation: Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Minnesota, 393 Dunlap Street N. Suite 500, St. Paul, MN 55104, USA. scongilosi@colonrectal.org
authors.forename: Susan Congilosi
authors.initials: SC
authors.lastname: Parker
authors.forename: Amy
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Thorsen
mesh_terms: D005242:Fecal Incontinence / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012007:Rectum / Q000503:physiopathology*