Long-term results of suture rectopexy in patients with fecal incontinence associated with incomplete rectal prolapse

Suture rectopexy is the recommended therapy for complete rectal prolapse that is associated with fecal incontinence. It has been suggested that correction of an incomplete rectal prolapse is also worthwhile for patients with fecal incontinence. PURPOSE: Aims of this study were 1) to evaluate the clinical outcome of suture rectopexy in a consecutive series of patients with incomplete rectal prolapse associated with fecal incontinence, and 2) to compare these results with those obtained from patients with complete rectal prolapse. METHODS: Between 1979 and 1994, suture rectopexy was performed in 13 incontinent patients (3 males; median age, 65 (range, 45–77) years) with incomplete rectal prolapse (Group I) and in 24 incontinent patients (21 females; median age, 71 (range, 24–86) years) with complete rectal prolapse (Group II). RESULTS: After a median follow-up of 67 months, continence was restored in 5 of 13 (38 percent) patients with incomplete rectal prolapse and in 16 of 24 (67 percent) patients with complete rectal prolapse. In both groups, all male patients became continent. CONCLUSIONS: For the majority of incontinent patients with incomplete rectal prolapse, a suture rectopexy is not beneficial. The clinical outcome of this procedure is only good in incontinent patients with complete rectal prolapse. Based on these data, it is questionable whether incomplete rectal prolapse plays a causative role in fecal incontinence.Read at the meeting of the International Society of University Colon and Rectal Surgeons, Lisboa, Portugal, April 14 to 18, 1996.No reprints are available.     

Frequency of anal incontinence and results of pelvic viscerography in 291 women with pelvic organ prolapse

OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of anal incontinence in a population of 291 women with pelvic organ prolapse and evaluate the results of pelvic viscerogram in this situation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Each patient answered a standardized questionnaire on medical, obstetric and surgical past histories and answers were logged in a database. The viscerograms were performed by a single specialized radiologist. RESULTS: All patients but one were parous. The prevalence of anal incontinence was 26.1%. Stress urinary incontinence and urge urinary incontinence were significantly associated with anal incontinence. No obstetric or surgical risk factor for anal incontinence was demonstrated. Viscerography demonstrated rectoceles (n=86, 29.1%), enteroceles (n=77, 26.5%), cystoceles (n=174, 59.8%), and intra-anal rectal prolapse (n=106, 36.4%). A significant association was found between intra-anal rectal prolapse and anal incontinence. CONCLUSION: Anal incontinence is frequent in patients with pelvic organ prolapse, even more so in the presence of urinary incontinence, and should be investigated by pelvic viscerography. Pelvic floor dysfunction is frequently associated with enteroceles, rectoceles and rectal prolapse. Pelvic viscerograms should be systematically performed in the diagnostic work-up in patients with pelvic organ prolapse when surgical treatment is considered.     

Outcome of sphincteroplasty combined with surgery for urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse

PURPOSE: This is the first reported prospective study comparing outcome and cost in patients undergoing sphincteroplasty for anal incontinence vs. sphincteroplasty performed in combination with one or more procedures for urinary incontinence and/or pelvic organ prolapse. METHODS: We analyzed 44 patients with fecal incontinence who underwent anal sphincter repair alone (20 patients) or in combination with procedures for urinary incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse (24 patients). Information regarding risk factors for fecal incontinence, the degree of incontinence, and the extent that incontinence limited social, physical, and sexual activity was prospectively obtained from questionnaires. Clinic chart reviews and follow-up telephone interviews provided additional data. A cohort of case-matched patients who underwent only urogynecologic procedures was compared retrospectively for operative time, hospital cost, length of stay, and postoperative complications. RESULTS: There were no major complications in any group. The functional outcomes, physical, social, and sexual activity were similar in all three groups. Twenty-two of 24 patients who underwent the combined procedures were glad that they had both procedures concomitantly. CONCLUSION: Combination pelvic floor surgery provides good outcomes and is cost effective. This approach should be offered to women with concurrent problems of fecal and urinary incontinence and/or pelvic organ prolapse.     

Pelvic Organ Prolapse and Urinary Incontinence in Women With Surgically Managed Rectal Prolapse: A Population-Based Case-Control Study

Purpose This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of genital prolapse surgery and urinary incontinence in female patients operated on for rectal prolapse compared with a matched control group without rectal prolapse. Methods Fifty-two patients with a history of abdominal rectal prolapse surgery and 200 randomly selected age-matched and gender-matched control subjects without rectal prolapse received an extensive health care history survey. Results Response rate in the patient group was 48 of 52 (92 percent) and 165 of 200 (82 percent) in the control group. Rectal prolapse was associated with an increased risk of surgery for uterine prolapse (odds ratio = 3.1; 95 percent confidence interval = 1.4–6.9) and vaginal wall prolapse (odds ratio = 3.2; 95 percent confidence interval = 1.3–7.8). Mean age at hysterectomy because of uterine prolapse was 54.7 years in the patient group compared with 62.6 years in the control group (P < 0.01). Mean age at vaginal wall prolapse surgery was 60.2 years in the patient group compared with 66.6 years in the control group (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences between the cohorts regarding prevalence or age at debut of urinary incontinence. Conclusion Our results indicate a strong association between rectal and genital prolapse surgery suggesting that diagnosis of rectal prolapse necessitating surgical intervention should prompt a multidisciplinary pelvic floor assessment. Read at the meeting of The European Association of ColoProctology, Barcelona, Spain, September 18 to 20, 2003.     

Results of treatment for rectal prolapse and fecal incontinence

Fifty-six patients were treated for rectal prolapse or incontinence. Rectal prolapse was present in 32 patients and was associated with fecal incontinence in 24 (75 per cent). Incontinence without prolapse was present in 24 patients, 12 of whom were less than 40 years old. Rectopexy was used for treatment of rectal prolapse. Surgical treatment of fecal incontinence was by post-anal repair; external sphincter reconstruction and surgery was advised only if control of diarrhea and electrical therapy had been of no benefit. Rectopexy was completely successful at controlling rectal prolapse in all cases, and only four of the 20 (20 per cent) patients with incontinence and prolapse remained incontinent after rectopexy alone. Incontinence was completely controlled by postanal repair in 58 per cent of patients and by external sphincter repair alone or in combination with postanal repair in 67 per cent. Using a combination of therapies 45 of 48 patients who were initially incontinent were improved (94 per cent), and 42 of the patients have complete control of defecation (87 per cent).     

Variation in pudendal nerve terminal motor latency according to disease

PURPOSE: The aims of this study were first to establish whether any difference among pudendal nerve terminal motor latency (PNTML) values exists relative to diagnosis, second to determine whether left and right latencies are similar, and third to assess any correlation between age and neuropathy. Latency was elicited three times on each side, and an average latency was recorded as a result. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between June 1989 and April 1995, 1,026 patients (775 females and 251 males) underwent PNTML study. These patients were divided into four groups according to diagnosis: Group I, fecal incontinence; Group II, chronic constipation; Group III, idiopathic rectal pain; Group IV, rectal prolapse. Overall mean age was 61.5 (range, 6–95) years. Student's t-test was used to calculate statistical differences. Patients were then analyzed according to age and gender. Correlation was calculated with the nonparametric Mann-Whitney U test. RESULTS: Unilateral or bilateral prolongation of PNTML was noted in 90 patients (21.2 percent) in Group I, 80 (20.4 percent) in Group II, 22 (18.1 percent) in Group III, and 38 (42.6 percent) in Group IV. Average PNTML on the left side was 1.88 ms in Group I, 1.94 ms in Group II, 1.98 ms in Group III, and 2.12 ms in Group IV. Average PNTML on the right side was 1.85 ms in Group I, 1.94 ms in Group II, 1.99 ms in Group III, and 2.07 ms in Group IV. The only statistically significant differences in PNTML were between Groups I and IV (left,P <0.005; right, <0.05) and between females and males ( P <0.0001). CONCLUSION: There is no statistically significant difference between latencies of left and right pudendal nerves. Similarly, there are no statistically significant differences among patients with fecal incontinence, chronic constipation, or chronic idiopathic rectal pain. Normal latency can be expected in patients with constipation or fecal incontinence. However, patients with rectal prolapse have a more prolonged PNTML. Age is correlated with a higher incidence of pudendal neuropathy. This study reveals significant overlap among PNTML values and diagnosis.     

Anal encirclement with polypropylene mesh for rectal prolapse and incontinence

Seventeen selected patients (mean age, 74 years)—14 with rectal prolapse and 3 with persisting anal incontinence after previous operations—underwent high anal encirclement with polypropylene mesh. There was no operative mortality. Prolapse recurred in 2 (15 percent) of the 13 patients followed up for 6 months or more (mean, 3.5 years). Three (27 percent) of the 11 patients with associated anal incontinence improved functionally, as did the three operated on for persisting incontinence, but only one patient regained normal continence. No breakage, cutting out, or infection related to the mesh was observed. Because of the risk of fecal impaction encountered in three of our patients, the procedure is not advocated for severely constipated patients. Despite the somewhat disappointing results regarding restoration of continence, we find this method useful in patients with rectal prolapse who are unfit for more extensive surgery, in controlling the prolapse to an acceptable degree.     

Assessing and treating pelvic organ prolapse

At least half of all women who have given birth experience pelvic organ prolapse, a condition where pelvic organs protrude through the vagina. Because of the presentation of the different aspects of prolapse, treatment had become compartmentalized in line with pelvic involvement, with urologists, gynecologists, colorectal surgeons, and gastroenterologists each addressing their field of expertise. In addition, urinary or fecal incontinence, urinary retention, and urinary tract infections often are associated with pelvic organ prolapse. Both pelvic organ prolapse and incontinence have a significant impact on the quality of life. New training programs in urogynecology and reconstructive pelvic surgery are producing clinicians who are better equipped to treat pelvic organ prolapse, as well as related urinary and fecal incontinence. This article provides an overview of the various aspects of pelvic organ prolapse for all clinicians involved in assessment, treatment, and potential prevention of this condition.     

Manometric evaluation of rectal prolapse and faecal incontinence.

Sixty-three patients with complete rectal prolapse and/or faecal incontinence have undergone anal manometry and the results have been compared with an equal number of age- and sex-matched controls. Maximal basal pressure (MBP) and maximum squeeze pressure (MSP) were measured before and at four months and a year after treatment. The anal pressures of normal subjects are presented. Patients with rectal prolapse alone had normal anal pressures, whereas patients with incontinence with or without prolapse had significantly lower basal and squeeze pressures than controls. Successful surgical treatment of prolapse or incontinence did not produce significant change in anal canal pressures, whereas the combination of pelvic floor exercises and a continence aid was associated with a significant rise in MSP.     

Delorme's operation and sphincteroplasty for rectal prolapse and fecal incontinence

Clinical and manometric results of Delorme's operation and sphincteroplasty were assessed retrospectively in patients undergoing this procedure for fecal incontinence and rectal prolapse. A series of 33 patients (11 males, 22 females; aged 18–83 years, mean 59) with external rectal prolapse were treated by Delorme's operation between 1989 and 1996. Mean follow-up was 39 months (range 7–84). Sphincteroplasty was associated in 12 cases with severe fecal incontinence due to striated muscle defects. Good results were achieved in 27 patients (79%); prolapse recurrence was observed in 6 (21%), the mean recurrence time being 9 months (range 1–24 months). There were no postoperative deaths. Minor complications occurred in 15 patients. Changes in preoperative and postoperative manometric patterns were as follows (mean±SEM): voluntary contraction from 59±6.9 to 66±7.1 mmHg (P=0.05), resting tone from 33±5 to 32±4.3 mmHg, rectal sensation from 59±5 to 61±5.2 ml of air (n.s.). A solitary rectal ulcer syndrome was detected in five patients. The histological pattern demonstrated pathological changes in 40% of cases. Fecal incontinence was resolved in 6 of 20 cases (30%) and chronic constipation in 4 of 9 (44%). Failure (n=3) was related primarily to postoperative sepsis. The incontinence score showed a mean improvement of 35% decreasing, from 4.5±0.39 to 2.9±0.44 after surgery (P<0.01). In conclusion, Delorme's procedure did not lead to constipation and improved anal continence when associated with sphincteroplasty. Accepted: 20 January 1998     

Selection criteria for internal rectal prolapse repair by delorme's transrectal excision

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to review our results of Delorme's transrectal excision for internal rectal prolapse, with a view to determining preoperative selection criteria associated with a satisfactory outcome. METHODS: Between 1992 and 1998, 20 patients with internal rectal prolapse underwent Delorme's transrectal excision. The last patient was excluded from the study because of a follow-up period shorter than six months. The remaining 19 patients were prospectively followed up and classified into two groups according to their preoperative selection criteria. Group I consisted of eight patients operated on between January 1992 and October 1993 who were selected for surgery after medical treatment during a three-month period failed to improve symptoms. Initial results were reviewed, with a follow-up of at least six months, to assess predictive criteria correlating with poorer surgical outcome. These adverse criteria were used to exclude patients from selection into Group II, which included 11 patients operated on between June 1994 and June 1997. In each group the degree of improvement of symptoms was graded: Grade 1 = complete improvement with resolution of all symptoms; Grade 2 = significant improvement with resolution of dyschezia but not of other symptoms; Grade 3 = no improvement; and Grade 4 = worsened condition or reoperation. The two groups were compared according to ultimate outcomes. RESULTS: Of the Group I patients, three had preoperative chronic diarrhea, one had proximal internal rectal prolapse with rectosacral separation at defecography, and the other two were incontinent to liquid stool. An additional patient had incontinence to liquid stool but no diarrhea. Three other patients had major perineal descent (>9 cm). Results were Grade 1 for one patient, Grade 2 for one patient, Grade 3 for five patients, and Grade 4 for one patient (subsequent abdominal rectopexy). Data review showed that proximal internal prolapse with rectosacral separation at defecography, preoperative chronic diarrhea, fecal incontinence, and descending perineum (>9 cm on straining) were associated with a poorer outcome (Grades 3 and 4). These adverse criteria were used to exclude patients from selection into Group II. In this group results were Grade 1 for seven patients and Grade 2 for four patients. During the course of follow-up (mean, 43; standard deviation, 19; range, 8-73 months), outcome was better in Group II (P = 0.007). CONCLUSION. These data suggest that a favorable outcome can be achieved after Delorme's transrectal excision for internal rectal prolapse by applying stringent patient-selection criteria.     

Treatment of rectal prolapse in the elderly by perineal rectosigmoidectomy

The results and complications of perineal rectosigmoidectomy for complete rectal prolapse in 114 patients have been reviewed. Most patients were elderly and high risk by virtue of other concurrent medical conditions. Fourteen patients (12 percent) developed significant postoperative complications. Hospital stay was short (median, four days). Ten patients were lost to follow-up. The remaining 104 patients were followed for 3 to 90 months. Eleven patients (10 percent) developed recurrent fullthickness rectal prolapse; six of them underwent repeat perineal rectosigmoidectomy. Sixty-seven patients had fecal incontinence prior to surgery. Eleven patients underwent concomitant levatoroplasty; 10 of them either improved or regained full continence of feces postoperatively. Twenty-six of the 56 patients who underwent perineal rectosigmoidectomy alone improved or regained full continence. Rectal prolapse can be successfully treated by perineal rectosigmoidectomy in elderly, highrisk patients with minimal morbidity. Levatoroplasty dramatically improves fecal incontinence occurring in association with rectal prolapse.Read at the meeting of The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, Boston, Massachusetts, May 12 to 17, 1991.     

Rectal mucosal prolapse in males: surgery is effective for fecal incontinence but not for obstructed defecation

Background

The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the functional outcome of transanal surgery in male patients suffering from fecal incontinence, soiling, and obstructed defecation associated with rectal mucosal prolapse.

Methods

All male patients who underwent transanal surgery (either stapled or Delorme mucosectomy) for rectal mucosal prolapse associated with fecal incontinence and obstructed defecation were prospectively enrolled in the study. The recruitment phase was 17 months (April 2011 to August 2012). Symptom evaluation was based on the validated scores preoperatively and 12 months after surgery (Wexner incontinence score and Wexner constipation score). The primary end point was “success,” which was defined as a 50 % reduction in symptoms. Using a decision-tree algorithm, patient groups with the highest and lowest chance of success were identified.

Results

Thirty-eight male patients (mean age 51 years) underwent transanal surgery for rectal mucosal prolapse. The predominant symptoms were fecal incontinence in 31 patients (82 %) and obstructed defecation in 7 (18 %). Stapled mucosectomy was performed in 34 patients and Delorme mucosectomy in 4 patients. No major morbidity occurred. Symptom resolution for soiling was 77 %, itching and mucus secretion were improved in 47 and 50 %, and bleeding resolved in 89 % of patients affected. Functional outcome was good in 90 % (28/31) of the patients with fecal incontinence but in only 28 % (2/7) for obstructed defecation. The Wexner incontinence score decreased significantly (11.1 vs. 3.9, p < 0.01), whereas the Wexner constipation score was not influenced (18.4 vs. 15.6, p > 0.05). Using a decision-tree algorithm, a success rate of 96 % was observed in patients with fecal incontinence associated with younger age (age <45 years) and no presence of fecal urgency prior to surgery.

Conclusions

Transanal stapled mucosectomy for rectal mucosal prolapse in males is effective for fecal incontinence, but not for obstructed defecation.     

Outcome and management of patients with large rectoanal intussusception

OBJECTIVES: Rectoanal intussusception is the funnel-shaped infolding of the rectum, which occurs during evacuation. The aims of this study were to evaluate the risk of full thickness rectal prolapse during follow-up of patients with large rectoanal intussusception, and whether therapy improved functional outcome. METHODS: Between September 1988 and July 1997, patients diagnosed with a large rectoanal intussusception by cinedefecography (intussusception > or = 10 mm, extending into the anal canal) were retrospectively evaluated. Patients with full thickness rectal prolapse on physical examination or cinedefecography were excluded, as were patients with colonic inertia or a history of surgery for rectal prolapse. The patients were divided into three groups according to the treatment received: group I, conservative dietary therapy; group II, biofeedback; and group III, surgery. Outcomes were obtained by postal questionnaires or telephone interviews. Parameters included age, gender, past medical and surgical history, change of bowel habits, fecal incontinence score, and development of full thickness rectal prolapse. RESULTS: Of the 63 patients, 18 were excluded (seven patients had confirmed full thickness rectal prolapse, four had previous surgery for rectal prolapse, three had colonic inertia, and four died). Follow-up data were obtained in 36 (80%) of the remaining 45 patients. The mean follow-up of this group was 45 months (range, 12-118 months). There were 34 women and two men, with a mean age of 72.4 yr (range, 37-91 yr). The mean size of the intussusception was 2.2 cm (range, 1.0-5.0 cm). The patients were classified as follows: group I, 13 patients (36.1%); group II, 13 patients (36.1%); and group III, 10 patients (27.8%). Subjectively, symptoms improved in five (38.5%), four (30.8%), and six (60.0%) patients in the three groups (p > 0.05). Among the patients with constipation, the decrease in numbers of assisted bowel movements per week (time of diagnosis to present) was significantly greater in group II compared to group 1 (8.1+/-2.8 vs 0.8+/-0.5, respectively, p = 0.004). Among the patients with incontinence, incontinence scores improved more in group II as compared to either group I or group III (time of diagnosis to present, 3.7+/-4.2 to 1.1+/-5.4 vs 1.4+/-2.2, respectively, p > 0.05). Six patients (two in group I, three in group II, and one in group III) had the sensation of rectal prolapse on evacuation; however, only one patient in group I developed full thickness rectal prolapse. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated that the risk of full thickness rectal prolapse developing in patients medically treated for large intussusception is very small (1/26, 3.8%). Moreover, biofeedback is beneficial to improve the symptoms of both constipation and incontinence in these patients. Therefore, biofeedback should be considered as the initial therapy of choice for large rectoanal intussusception.     

Rectal prolapse and anal incontinence treated with a modified Roscoe Graham operation

The results of abdominal mobilization of the rectum and repair of the pelvic floor behind the anorectal junction are reported in 23 patients with rectal prolapse, being accompanied by some form of anal incontinence in 12. Within 20 months, on the average, three patients had recurrent prolapse. Two thirds of the patients with incontinence for solid and/or fluid feces were cured for prolapse as well as incontinence. Seven became constipated, while 14 were fully satisfied. Seven of eight patients with a highly reduced tone of the external sphincter before surgery had a marked improvement after surgery. The results do not differ greatly from those after the suspension operation or repair of the pelvic floor in front of the rectum, despite being more physiologic, but suggest that simultaneous suspension and abdominal repair of the pelvic floor may avoid the need for a secondary postanal repair from below in patients with persistent incontinence after suspension surgery. A controlled, randomized trial is advocated.     

Prevalence of anal incontinence in adults]

Inquiries were conducted to determine the prevalence of anal incontinence in a) the general population over 45 by a gallup poll studying 1,100 persons (A); b) 3,914 patients seen by their general practitioner or their gastroenterologist during the same week (B); c) 500 patients consulting for urinary stress incontinence (C1); d) 1,136 neurological patients suffering from micturation disorders (C2); and e) 10,157 elderly persons living in retirement homes or in hospital (D). In the general community (A), the prevalence of anal incontinence, including gas and stool incontinence, was 11 percent, the prevalence of fecal incontinence, 6 percent, the prevalence of daily or weekly fecal incontinence, 2 percent; prevalences were respectively 15.5 percent, 7.9 percent, and 3.2 percent in group B, and 27 percent, 9 percent and 3.8 percent in group C1. The prevalence of fecal incontinence was 18 percent in group C2 and 33 percent in group D. Prevalence did not depend on age in group A and C1, but was twofold higher in group C1 than in group A. The prevalence increased with age in groups B and D.     

Results of neurophysiologic evaluation in fecal incontinence

PURPOSE: Several methods of neurophysiologic assessment exist in the investigation of patients with fecal incontinence. However, the clinical significance of the information gained is uncertain. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the results of pudendal nerve terminal motor latency and fiber density in relation to clinical variables and manometric measurements. METHODS: Seventy-two patients with fecal incontinence (63 women; mean age, 62; range, 24–81 years) responded to a bowel questionnaire and underwent anorectal manovolumetry, anal ultrasonography, defecography, and electromyography, including pudendal nerve terminal motor latency and fiber density. RESULTS: Pudendal neuropathy (pudendal nerve terminal motor latency >2.5 ms) was found in 46 percent and increased fiber density (>1.7) in 82 percent. Pudendal neuropathy and increased fiber density were most common in patients with rectal prolapse or intra-anal intussusception. No difference was seen concerning anal resting and incremental pressures, rectal compliance, rectal sensibility or severity of incontinence in patients with unilateral, bilateral, or marked (>4 ms) pudendal neuropathyvs. patients with normal pudendal nerve terminal motor latency. In contrast, patients with increased fiber density had lower incremental pressures (P<0.05) and stated decreased rectal sensibility (P<0.05) compared with those with normal fiber density. These differences were most pronounced in patients with neurogenic or idiopathic incontinence. CONCLUSIONS: Pudendal neuropathy and increased fiber density are common in patients with fecal incontinence. Fiber density but not pudendal nerve terminal motor latency was correlated with clinical and manometric variables. The severity of nerve injury correlated with anal motor and sensory function in patients with neurogenic or idiopathic incontinence. The routine use of pudendal nerve terminal motor latency in the assessment of patients with fecal incontinence can be questioned.Read at The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons' 100th Anniversary and Tripartite Meeting, Washington, D.C., May 1 to 6, 1999.     

Lower urinary tract and bowel dysfunction after incontinence and prolapse interventions

The incidence of anti-incontinence procedures and surgery for prolapse repairs has increased significantly over the past decade. As more clinicians have embarked on performing these surgeries using new techniques and variations on traditional repairs, complications are starting to be recognized. We review the literature, focusing on postoperative lower urinary tract and bowel dysfunction following surgery for incontinence and pelvic prolapse. We performed a comprehensive review of the literature on interventions for urinary incontinence and pelvic prolapse using MEDLINE and resources cited in those peer-reviewed papers. Postoperative voiding dysfunction including symptomatic bladder outlet obstruction, de novo urgency and urge incontinence, and recurrent stress urinary incontinence appear to be the most common voiding issues after anti-incontinence surgery, with rates varying based on the type of sling used. Bowel dysfunction following prolapse surgery can occur after rectocele repair and sacrocolpopexy or other apical repair and may vary based on the surgical technique and graft reinforcement used. Success rates for incontinence and prolapse repairs remain stable. With the introduction of new techniques, it is important to consider potential postoperative bladder and bowel effects so that clinicians may counsel their patients appropriately prior to intervention.     

Sacral nerve stimulation for treatment of fecal incontinence: a novel approach for intractable fecal incontinence

PURPOSE: Many patients with fecal incontinence demonstrate a functional deficit of the internal anal sphincter or the external sphincter muscles without any apparent structural defects. Few patients are amenable to repair or substitution of the sphincter. However, sacral nerve stimulation appears to offer a valid treatment option for fecal incontinence. The objectives of this study were: to evaluate the efficacy of temporary stimulation of the sacral nerve roots (percutaneous nerve evaluation) in patients with functional fecal incontinence; to determine the mechanisms of possible improvement; and to evaluate if temporary stimulation could be reproduced and maintained by implanting a permanent neurostimulation system. METHODS: Twenty-three patients with fecal incontinence, 18 females and 5 males, median age of 54.9 years (range 28-71), underwent a percutaneous nerve evaluation test. Eleven patients (47.8 percent) also had urinary disorders: urge incontinence (4), stress incontinence (3), and retention (4). Associated disorders included perineal and rectal pain (1), spastic paraparesis (1), and syringomyelia (1). All patients underwent a preliminary evaluation using stationary anal manovolumetry, pudendal nerve terminal motor latency measurements, and anal ultrasound. A percutaneous electrode for the stimulation of the sacral nerve roots was positioned at the level of the third sacral foramen (S3) in 20 patients and S2 in 2 patients (1 patient missing). Stimulation parameters used were: pulse width 210 microsec, frequency 25 Hz, and average amplitude of 2.8 V (range 1-6). The electrode was left in place for a minimum of 7 days. Five patients were successively implanted with a permanent sacral electrode with a stimulation frequency of 16 to 18 Hz and amplitude of 1.1- 4.9 V. RESULTS: Seventeen of the 19 patients (89.4 percent) who completed the minimum percutaneous nerve evaluation period of 7 days (median 10.7 (range 7-30)), had a reduction of liquid or solid stool incontinence by more than 50 percent, and fourteen (73.6 percent) were completely continent for stool. The most important changes revealed by manovolumetry were an increase in resting pressure (P < 0.001) and voluntary contraction (P = 0.041), reduction of initial pressure for first sensation (P = 0.049) and urge to defecate (P = 0.002), and a reduction of the rectal volume for urge sensation (P = 0.006). The percutaneous nerve evaluation results were reproduced at a median follow-up of 19.2 months (range 5 to 37) in the 5 patients who received a permanent implant. CONCLUSIONS: Temporary stimulation of the sacral roots (percutaneous nerve evaluation) can be of help in those patients with fecal incontinence, and the results are reproduced with permanent implantation. The positive effect on continence seems to be derived from not only the direct efferent stimulation on the pelvic floor and the striated sphincter muscle, but also from modulating afferent stimulation of the autonomous neural system, inhibition of the rectal detrusor, activation of the internal anal sphincter, and modulation of sacral reflexes that regulate rectal sensitivity and motility.     

Rectal Hypersensitivity Worsens Stool Frequency, Urgency, and Lifestyle in Patients With Urge Fecal Incontinence

PURPOSE Rectal sensory mechanisms are important in the maintenance of fecal continence. Approximately 50 percent of patients with urge incontinence have lowered rectal sensory threshold volumes (rectal hypersensitivity) on balloon distention. Rectal hypersensitivity may underlie the heightened perception of rectal filling; however, its impact on fecal urgency and incontinence is unknown. This study was designed to investigate the impact of rectal hypersensitivity in patients with urge fecal incontinence.METHODS Prospective and retrospective audit review of all patients (n = 258) with an intact native rectum referred to a tertiary colorectal surgical center for physiologic investigation of urge fecal incontinence during a 7.5-year period. Patients with urge fecal incontinence who had undergone pelvic radiotherapy (n = 9) or rectal prolapse (n = 6) were excluded.RESULTS A total of 108 of 243 patients (44 percent) were found to have rectal hypersensitivity. The incidence of anal sphincter dysfunction was equal (90 percent) among those with or without rectal hypersensitivity. Patients with urge fecal incontinence and rectal hypersensitivity had increased stool frequency (P < 0.0001), reported greater use of pads (P = 0.003), and lifestyle restrictions (P = 0.0007) compared with those with normal rectal sensation, but had similar frequencies of incontinent episodes.CONCLUSIONS Urge fecal incontinence relates primarily to external anal sphincter dysfunction, but in patients with urge fecal incontinence, rectal hypersensitivity exacerbates fecal urgency, and this should be considered in the management and surgical decision in patients who present with fecal incontinence.Christopher L. H. Chan, F.R.C.S., is supported by a MRC Clinical Training Fellowship.