OC-088 Prospective Pilot Study to Investigate Transcutaneous Sacral Nerve Stimulation for Faecal Incontinence

Abstract

<h3>Introduction</h3> Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) is an effective treatment for faecal incontinence (FI). However it is expensive, it requires two operations and has a risk of infection, implant migration and pain. Transcutaneous SNS is non-invasive and cheap. Only one small study has previously reported its use for FI. The aim of this study is to further assess the efficacy of transcutaneous SNS for FI. <h3>Methods</h3> Recruited patients self-administered transcutaneous SNS for 12 hours a day, over four weeks. A two week bowel diary was kept for the final two weeks and compared to baseline. St Marks FI scores, a visual analogue scale assessing satisfaction with bowel habit, Rockwood FI QOL scores and SF-36 QOL scores were obtained. <h3>Results</h3> Ten patients were recruited. Two achieved complete continence. There were significant reductions in the frequency of FI episodes per week, 9.5 (7.5) to 3 (7.38); p = 0.03, and in the frequency of defecation per week, 25.5 (19.5) to 14.5 (14.9); p = 0.007. There was a significant improvement in the ability to defer defecation (1(1.25) to 4.5 (4.5) minutes, p = 0.02). There was a significant improvement in the St Marks FI score, 20 (5.25) to 14.5 (8.0); p = 0.01. There was a significant improvement in the bowel habit satisfaction visual analogue scale 8.5 (20) to 45 (33); p = 0.008. There were no significant changes in the Rockwood FI QOL score, or in the SF-36 QOL score. No complications were reported. <h3>Conclusion</h3> Transcutaneous SNS appears to be an effective and safe treatment for FI. <h3>Disclosure of Interest</h3> None Declared