A simple quality of life questionnaire for patients with faecal incontinence.
BACKGROUND
A simple quality of life questionnaire was designed to triage patients with faecal incontinence to the most appropriate level of support, investigation and treatment.


METHODS
A questionnaire was developed to include a 'symptom' score, similar in content to St Mark's questionnaire and a 'bothersome' score. A pilot study (34 patients) assessed the clarity of questions. Once content validity was established, it was sent to 360 patients who attended a pelvic floor clinic. Its external validity was assessed against the established standards of the short form 36 (SF-36) and the Manchester Health Questionnaires. Ease of use for these was assessed using a separate form.


RESULTS
Of the 360 patients, 86 replied. The questionnaire was shown to be reliable both by measurement of its internal consistency and by test-retest analysis. There was a significant correlation between the scores of the new questionnaire and the Manchester Health Questionnaire as well as the SF-36. Divergence validity, assessed by correlating the number of pads used and the overall symptom score, was established. The new questionnaire was easiest to complete, taking on average 4 min.


CONCLUSIONS
We have demonstrated that the new questionnaire is reliable and valid. It is easy and quick to complete and assesses both severity and impact of symptoms.
Krysa
Jo
J
Department of Colorectal Surgery, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
Lyons
Monica
M
Williams
Andrew B
AB
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005242:Fecal Incontinence / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011788:Quality of Life; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires