Description

Fecal incontinence (FI) is the uncontrolled passage of feces or gas in an individual who previously had control. The prevalence of the problem varies but can be as high as 50% of institutionalized individuals. The severity varies among individuals, but the negative impact on self-esteem and quality of life can have devastating effects. The goals of treatment are to decrease the frequency and severity of episodes as well as to improve quality of life. At present, several therapies, ranging from medical management to more invasive surgical interventions, are offered for the management of FI. The goals of treatment are to decrease the frequency and severity of episodes and improve quality of life. The decision of which treatment to employ is based on the severity of symptoms and integrity of the anal sphincter. Sacral nerve neuromodulation SNM was approved for use in the management of FI by the FDA in 2011. SNM works by electrical stimulation of the sacral nerve roots, producing anal sphincter augmentation and modulation of spinal/supraspinal pathways. Wexner et al. demonstrated the efficacy of this device in the treatment of FI in a prospective, multicenter study in the US. Success was defined as at least a 50% reduction of incontinent episodes per week over 12 weeks in at least 50% of patients. The authors demonstrated 83% therapeutic success at 12 months, and 41% of patients achieved 100% continence. For more information: World Laparoscopy Hospital Cyber City, Gurugram, NCR Delhi INDIA: +919811416838 World Laparoscopy Training Institute Bld.No: 27, DHCC, Dubai UAE: +971525857874 World Laparoscopy Training Institute 8320 Inv Dr, Tallahassee, Florida USA: +1 321 250 7653