title: An Evidence-Based Approach to the Evaluation, Diagnostic Assessment and Treatment of Fecal Incontinence in Women.
abstract: Fecal incontinence (FI) is a debilitating disorder which negatively impacts quality of life. The etiology is often multifactorial and although most women with FI are able to be treated, many remain untreated because a significant proportion of women do not report their symptoms and seek care. The evaluation and treatment of FI can be also hindered by a lack of understanding of the mechanisms and current options. This article provides a review on the evidence-based evaluation and management for FI.
authors.affiliation: Division of Urogynecology and Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 1700 6th Avenue South, Suite 10382, Birmingham, AL 35233, , imeyer@uabmc.edu.
authors.forename: Isuzu
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Meyer
authors.affiliation: Division of Urogynecology and Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 1700 6th Avenue South, Suite 10382, Birmingham, AL 35233, , hrichter@uabmc.edu.
authors.forename: Holly E
authors.initials: HE
authors.lastname: Richter
keywords: Accidental bowel leakage; Anal incontinence; Defecatory disorders; Fecal incontinence