Clinical, sonographic and manometric characteristics and impact on quality of life of anal incontinence in 92 men referred for endoanal ultrasonography

Abstract

Anal incontinence (AI) is a frequent symptom with considerable impact on quality of life. The aim of this study was to describe the clinical, sonographic and manometric characteristics of a male population with AI. Endoanal ultrasonography (EAU) was performed in 92 men referred for exploration of AI. Anal incontinence severity was evaluated by the Jorge and Wexner score (JW). The gastrointestinal quality-of-life index (GIQLI) was determined in 57% of patients. Anorectal manometry was performed in 62.6% of patients. The average JW score was 11+/-1. Anal incontinence had considerable impact on quality of life: average GIQLI=81+/-4. Seventeen patients presented an anal sphincter defect on EAU, 16 of whom had a history of coloproctological surgery. Prior surgery was significantly more common among patients who had a defect on ultrasonography; manometry showed significantly lower resting anal pressure. Our study confirms the severity of AI in a male population and its impact on quality of life. It also highlights the high prevalence of anal sphincter defects in patients with a history of anal surgery.