title: Fecal incontinence.
abstract: Fecal incontinence (FI) has a significant social and economic impact on the patient and the community. In women, obstetric injury is commonly associated with the development of FI. Understanding FI is aided by a good knowledge of the pelvic floor anatomy and continence mechanisms. This same knowledge along with a good history and physical can guide the physician in selecting appropriate studies and treatment options. Surgical treatment of FI is currently the best option when a sphincter defect exists. The long-term prognosis of the repair is disappointing, however. Ongoing investigations continue in the hopes of getting closer to a cure and to reclaiming the patient's former quality of life.
authors.affiliation: Department of Colorectal Surgery, Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
authors.forename: Christine D
authors.initials: CD
authors.lastname: Hannaway
authors.forename: Tracy L
authors.initials: TL
authors.lastname: Hull
mesh_terms: D036861:Delivery, Obstetric / Q000009:adverse effects; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005242:Fecal Incontinence / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D015995:Prevalence; D012307:Risk Factors