Fecal Incontinence Research Articles

Pelvic floor function after third and fourth degree perineal lacerations: a case-control study on quality of life

BackgroundThe primary aim of this study was to compare the quality of life between women with obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) and women with intact perineum or minor vaginal tears following their first vaginal birth through a validated urogynaecological questionnaire. As a secondary aim, we wanted to identify the specific symptoms for pelvic floor dysfunction after a vaginal birth.MethodsOne hundred thirty-three cases (III- and IV-degree vaginal tears) and 133 controls (intact perineum or I- and II-degree vaginal tear) were asked to fill the PFDI-20 condition-specific and quality of life survey at three and 12 months after vaginal delivery. The survey evaluates pelvic floor dysfunction symptoms through three subsections: the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Distress Inventory (POPDI), the Colorectal-Anal Distress Inventory (CRADI), and Urinary Distress Inventory, (UDI). The scoring system ranges from 0 (no distress) to 100 (maximum distress) for each subsection, subsequently summed up to obtain the summary score (0 to 300). The patients recruited were asked to complete the survey at 3- and 12-months follow-up visit. Accordingly, data collection started. Categorical variables were subjected to Chi-square test or Fisher’s Exact test. Quantitative variables were compared through Student’s t-test or Mann-Whitney test.ResultsAll surveys have shown statistically significant differences when comparing the cases to the control group. Consequently, PFDI-20 has shown a strong correlation between III- and IV-grade lacerations and pelvic floor dysfunction persistence at 12 months after delivery. Intestinal symptoms were the most reported disturbances among women with previous OASI.ConclusionsMajor vaginal tears have demonstrated to have a strong impact on women’s quality of life up to a follow-up of 12 months. The use of PFDI-20 questionnaire is a useful and valid tool in the diagnosis and follow-up of genital prolapse, fecal and urinary incontinence in primiparous women with a history of OASI. Thus, its application in clinical practice can help offering the most adequate rehabilitative treatment.

Efficacy of atypical antipsychotics in the treatment of fecal incontinence in children and adolescents: a randomized clinical trial

ObjectivesFunctional retentive overflow incontinence (retentive FI) is the most common cause of fecal soiling in children. Based on the clinical experiences, the treatment of retentive FI in patients with comorbid psychiatric disorders was accelerated when Risperidone was used as treatment for their psychiatric comorbidities; therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the effect of risperidone in the treatment of retentive FI in children and adolescents.MethodsIn this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, 140 patients aged 4–16 years eligible for the study were randomized into two groups, receiving either 0.25–0.5 mg of Risperidone syrup (n = 70) or maltodextrin syrup (placebo group, n = 70) every 12 h daily for 12 weeks. Sociodemographic data, including age, sex, weight, height, BMI, BMI z-score, and socioeconomic status, was recorded, and the number of nocturnal FI, diurnal FI, and painful defecations was measured.Results136 participants (69 on Risperidone and 67 on placebo) were included in the study. Mean age of participants in the intervention and placebo groups were 7.2 ± 2.4 years and 8.0 ± 3.1 years, respectively. The mean number of nocturnal FI (Ptrend=0.39) and diurnal FI (Ptrend=0.48) in patients without psychiatric comorbidities, and the number of painful defecations for participants with and without psychiatric comorbidities (P = 0.49, P = 0.47, respectively) were not significantly different between the groups, but a significant effect was observed in diurnal FI after Risperidone treatment in patients with psychiatric comorbidities (P < 0.001).ConclusionRisperidone, when used along with other non-pharmacological interventions, may be helpful in treating FI in pediatric patients with psychiatric comorbidities.

Perspectives on the representation of frailty in the electronic frailty index

BackgroundFrailty is a state of increased vulnerability from physical, social, and cognitive factors resulting in greater risk of negative health-related outcomes and increased healthcare expenditure. A 36-factor electronic frailty index (eFI) developed in the United Kingdom calculates frailty scores using electronic medical record data. There is currently no standardization of frailty screening in Canadian primary care. In order to implement the eFI in a Canadian context, adaptation of the tool is necessary because frailty is represented by different clinical terminologies in the UK and Canada. In considering the promise of implementing an eFI in British Columbia, Canada, we first looked at the content validation of the 36-factor eFI. Our research question was: Does the eFI represent frailty from the perspectives of primary care clinicians and older adults in British Columbia?MethodsA modified Delphi using three rounds of questionnaires with a panel of 23 experts (five family physicians, five nurse practitioners, five nurses, four allied health professionals, four older adults) reviewed and provided feedback on the 36-factor eFI. These professional groups were chosen because they closely work as interprofessional teams within primary care settings with older adults. Older adults provide real life context and experiences. Questionnaires involved rating the importance of each frailty factor on a 0–10 scale and providing rationale for ratings. Panelists were also given the opportunity to suggest additional factors that ought to be included in the screening tool. Suggested factors were similarly rated in two Delphi rounds.ResultsThirty-three of the 36 eFI factors achieved consensus (> 80% of panelists provided a rating of ≥ 8). Factors that did not achieve consensus were hypertension, thyroid disorder and peptic ulcer. These factors were perceived as easily treatable or manageable and/or not considered reflective of frailty on their own. Additional factors suggested by panelists that achieved consensus included: cancer, challenges to healthcare access, chronic pain, communication challenges, fecal incontinence, food insecurity, liver failure/cirrhosis, mental health challenges, medication noncompliance, poverty/financial difficulties, race/ethnic disparity, sedentary/low activity levels, and substance use/misuse. There was a 100% retention rate in each of the three Delphi rounds.Conclusions and next stepsThree key findings emerged from this study: the conceptualization of frailty varied across participants, identification of frailty in community/primary care remains challenging, and social determinants of health affect clinicians’ assessments and perceptions of frailty status. This study will inform the next phase of a broader mixed-method sequential study to build a frailty screening tool that could ultimately become a standard of practice for frailty screening in Canadian primary care. Early detection of frailty can help tailor decision making, frame discussions about goals of care, prevent advancement on the frailty trajectory, and ultimately decrease health expenditures, leading to improved patient and system level outcomes.

Association of chronic conditions and physical multimorbidity with new-onset incontinence in a nationwide prospective cohort study of older adults ≥ 50years in China.

The relationship between multimorbidity (i.e. ≥ 2 chronic conditions) and incontinence (i.e. urinary and/or faecal incontinence) is underexplored. This study investigated the association between multimorbidity and incident incontinence in Chinese adults aged ≥50years. Data from the 2011 and 2015 waves of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study were used. The association between 12 chronic conditions, multimorbidity and new-onset incontinence was analysed using weighted logistic regression models. Mediation analysis was conducted to explore the potential mediators (self-reported health, subjective memory, depressive symptoms, disability, cognitive function, handgrip strength, mobility limitations, medications and frailty status) between multimorbidity and incontinence. Among 9,986 individuals aged ≥50years who were continent at baseline, 5.3% (n = 521) were newly incontinent 4years later (incident cases). The risk of incident incontinence increased with physical multimorbidity (OR 2.04, 95% CI 1.62-2.57). Compared to no chronic condition, having 1, 2, 3 and ≥ 4 chronic conditions were associated with incident incontinence with OR (95% CI): 1.41 (1.01-1.97), 1.74 (1.24-2.44), 2.82 (1.93-4.12) and 3.99 (2.29-6.95), respectively. The association between multimorbidity and incontinence was mediated by self-reported health (41.2%), medications (26.6%), mobility limitations (20.9%), depressive symptoms (12.8%), disability (11.6%), subjective memory (8.7%) and frailty status (8.3%). This longitudinal study found that physical multimorbidity and specific chronic conditions may increase the risk of new-onset incontinence among Chinese adults aged ≥50years. Self-reported health, medications and mobility limitations seemed to be important intermediate conditions between multimorbidity and incident incontinence.

Evaluating the Effectiveness and Safety of Fecal Management Systems among Severely Ill Patients Suffering from Fecal Incontinence: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Background. Few large‐sample studies have examined the use of fecal management systems (FMSs) in intensive care units (ICUs) or evaluated the associated complications. This study aims to assess the effectiveness and safety of FMS for stool diversion in ICU patients with fecal incontinence (FI). Methods. We enrolled 381 FI patients, assigning them to either an FMS group (n = 134), which used a fecal management device, or a usual care (UC) group (n = 247) that received standard care including regular perianal cleaning. Results. The FMS group reported lower incidence and severity of incontinence‐associated dermatitis (IAD) and higher Braden Scale scores (10.42 ± 2.77) compared to the UC group (9.71 ± 2.56), indicating reduced pressure ulcer risk. Notably, FMS‐associated complications were minimal, with only 5 patients (3.73%) affected; one required surgical intervention for rectal mucosal bleeding. Conclusions. FMS significantly reduced stool‐associated skin irritation, lowered the incidence of IAD and pressure injuries, and improved nurses’ convenience compared to UC.

Path analysis of urinary incontinence in older adults living in nursing homes

Path analysis of urinary incontinence in older adults living in nursing homes

Postpartum Pelvic floor disorder in Primiparous women - A prospective observational study

ABSTRACT Purpose: Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) describes clinical conditions related to changes in the pelvic floor causing voiding and defecation problems, pelvic organ prolapse (POP), sexual dysfunction, and pelvic pain. The postpartum period being associated with the onset or aggravation of PFD gives us an opportunity for identification and intervention. The evidence implicating vaginal delivery as a cause of PFD is controversial. This study will increase the understanding of the effect of vaginal birth on PFD, especially in the South Asian population. Methodology: A prospective observational study using pelvic floor disability index (PFDI 20) questionnaire (Hindi Version) was conducted. Two hundred primiparous women with term singleton fetuses who were admitted for planned delivery at term were enrolled and PFDI 20 questionnaire was filled. These women were followed till delivery and divided into two groups normal vaginal delivery (NVD) and LSCS. Enrolled women were followed up at 3 months postpartum and assessed using the PFDI 20 questionnaire. Results: Most common PFD symptom was POP in both groups followed by fecal incontinence and urinary incontinence symptoms. The percentage prevalence of any PFD symptoms was more in LSCS 67% as compared to 63% in the NVD group. The women with body mass index &gt;28, prolonged labor &gt;18 h, and instrumental delivery women with birth weight &gt;3 kg had a higher prevalence of any PFD symptoms at 3 months postpartum irrespective of mode of delivery. Conclusion: Vaginal delivery should always remain as the first and best choice for delivery.

Clinical outcomes of LeFort colpocleisis: A single-center experience from Turkey

Background/Aim. LeFort colpocleisis (LFC) is a procedure for treating pelvic organ prolapse (POP) in women. The aim of the study was to assess the sociodemographic characteristics, anatomical outcomes, satisfaction, and clinical outcomes of patients who underwent LFC for POP. Methods. The study retrospectively and consecutively included 103 patients who underwent LFC for stage III and stage IV POP between January 2010 and December 2022. The participants? sociodemographic characteristics and clinical outcomes were documented. The Turkish version of the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20) questionnaire was used to determine quality of life. Results. The patients? mean age was 73.1 ? 26.7 years, mean body mass index 27.4 ? 3.8 kg/m2, parity 4.8 ? 1.5, smoking rate 12.6%, POP quantification (POP-Q) stage III 30.1%, and POP-Q stage IV 69.9%. Their satisfaction rate results were 93.3%. Significant differences were observed in the preoperative period compared to the postoperative period in constipation (40.7% vs. 26.2%; p = 0.038), difficult defecation (22.3% vs. 8.7; p = 0.012), fecal incontinence (18.4% vs. 7.7%; p = 0.039), stress urinary incontinence (25.2% vs. 4.8%; p &lt; 0.001), urge incontinence (49.5% vs. 27.1%, p = 0.001), voiding dysfunction (37.8% vs. 23.3%; p = 0.002), and urinary retention (42.7% vs. 12.6%; p &lt; 0.001). Postoperative PFDI-20 scores were also significantly lower compared to the preoperative period (57.19 ? 16.57 vs. 21.62 ? 6.96; p &lt; 0.001). Conclusion. This study showed that LFC has been established as a surgical procedure with high anatomical success, high patient satisfaction rates, and minimal complications, especially in advanced POP with age-related comorbidities.

Results of transanal irrigation in intestinal dysfunction associated with anorectal malformations.

There are multiple tools available to optimize defecation in patients with anorectal malformation (ARM), such as habits, laxatives, and retrograde or anterograde irrigations, which are usually adapted in a progressive and combined fashion. The objective of this study was to assess the incorporation of transanal irrigation (TAI) to constipation and fecal incontinence treatment in patients with ARM. A retrospective study of ARM patients with indication of TAI according to the colorectal pathology unit's intestinal management protocol from 2015 to 2022 was carried out. Following use for over 3 months, patients or their guardians completed a phone survey of our own approved by the ethics committee. 39 ARM patients participated in the study. Pathologies included 11 rectourethral fistulas, 6 rectovesical fistulas, 16 cloacae, 2 rectovaginal fistulas, 2 perineal fistulas, and 2 vestibular fistulas. 44% of them had a sacral index <0.4. 62% had constipation, and 38% had incontinence. Thanks to TAI, confidence and safety improved in a very high and a high degree in 89% of the patients, whereas time devoted to intestinal management decreased a lot in 68% of them. 79% reported a 9- and 10-point quality-of-life improvement. 92% rated overall satisfaction with TAI with a score of 8, 9, and 10 - 10 meaning "completely satisfied." 100% recommend TAI. TAI is a good alternative for the intestinal management of fecal incontinence and constipation.

Quality of Life among Colostomy Patients in Najran, Saudi Arabia

Abstract Background: Colostomy surgery significantly impacts the quality of life (QoL) of patients, encompassing physical, psychological, social, and spiritual well-being. This study aimed to assess QoL among colostomy patients in Najran, Saudi Arabia, using the City of Hope Quality of Life-Ostomy Questionnaire (COH-QOL-OQ) Arabic version. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 73 colostomy patients at King Khaled Hospital. Demographic characteristics, colostomy-related factors, and QoL scores were analyzed using the descriptive statistics and analysis of variance. Results: Participants aged 18–30 years reported higher physical QoL scores than older age groups. Marital status before colostomy, educational level, and body mass index significantly influenced psychological, social, and spiritual QoL domains. Fecal incontinence as a reason for colostomy was associated with lower psychological well-being scores. Notably, participants with “I do not know” as the type of colostomy reported higher spiritual QoL scores. The findings emphasize the intricate relationship between demographic and colostomy-related factors and QoL domains. These insights underscore the need for comprehensive care strategies, acknowledging the multidimensional nature of patients’ well-being. Conclusion: This study advances our understanding of QoL among colostomy patients in Saudi Arabia, offering insights for health-care professionals to develop more holistic care approaches. The findings illuminate the significance of multidimensional factors in shaping patients’ overall well-being, thus contributing to enhanced patient-centered care and improved QoL outcomes.

Functional Outcomes of Patients Who Underwent Anorectal Malformation Repair Using MRI Guidance

BackgroundDespite the initiation of minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques, the majority of patients who undergo anorectal malformation repair still experience functional bowel issues in childhood, including constipation and fecal incontinence. In this study, we evaluate the functional outcomes of a procedure in which magnetic resonance imaging guidance is used during initial laparoscopic repair to better locate the epicenter of the sphincter muscle complex and pelvic floor with the goal of more accurate placement of the neoanus and improved functional outcomes. MethodsA retrospective chart review evaluated demographic, operative, and outcome details for patients who underwent this procedure. A telephone survey was employed to determine levels of social continence using the validated Baylor Continence Scale and to determine what type of bowel management is used. ResultsTwenty-six patients were included. Median age at operation was 7 months, and median age at follow-up was 4 years old, with a range of 1–9. Bowel management regimen results revealed that 19 % (n = 5) use no bowel management regimen, 58 % (n = 15) use laxatives only, and 23 % (n = 6) use enemas. Enema use was not associated with different spine or sacral anomalies (p = 0.77). Fifteen patients (58 %) answered the Baylor Continence Scale questions and had a median score of 14. No difference was found in scores when accounting for lesion level (p = 0.43), quality of needle placement (p = 0.46), or quality of sphincter muscles (p = 0.75). ConclusionsUsing MRI guidance in the repair of anorectal malformations shows promise in both the qualitative and quantitative functional outcomes of this complex patient population. Level of EvidenceLevel III.

Current Status and Role of Artificial Intelligence in Anorectal Diseases and Pelvic Floor Disorders.

Anorectal diseases and pelvic floor disorders are prevalent among the general population. Patients may present with overlapping symptoms, delaying diagnosis, and lowering quality of life. Treating physicians encounter numerous challenges attributed to the complex nature of pelvic anatomy, limitations of diagnostic techniques, and lack of available resources. This article is an overview of the current state of artificial intelligence (AI) in tackling the difficulties of managing benign anorectal disorders and pelvic floor disorders. A systematic literature review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. We searched the PubMed database to identify all potentially relevant studies published from January 2000 to August 2023. Search queries were built using the following terms: AI, machine learning, deep learning, benign anorectal disease, pelvic floor disorder, fecal incontinence, obstructive defecation, anal fistula, rectal prolapse, and anorectal manometry. Malignant anorectal articles and abstracts were excluded. Data from selected articles were analyzed. 139 articles were found, 15 of which met our inclusion and exclusion criteria. The most common AI module was convolutional neural network. researchers were able to develop AI modules to optimize imaging studies for pelvis, fistula, and abscess anatomy, facilitated anorectal manometry interpretation, and improved high-definition anoscope use. None of the modules were validated in an external cohort. There is potential for AI to enhance the management of pelvic floor and benign anorectal diseases. Ongoing research necessitates the use of multidisciplinary approaches and collaboration between physicians and AI programmers to tackle pressing challenges.

Does routine partial lateral sphincterotomy with open hemorrhoidectomy improve postoperative pain?

Objective In this study we aimed to detect the difference regarding the postoperative pain and continence in patients with third and fourth degree hemorrhoidal disease who underwent either hemorrhoidectomy alone or combined hemorrhoidectomy with partial internal sphincterotomy for the treatment of hemorrhoidal disease. Patients and methods This prospective comparative randomized clinical trial was conducted at hospitals of Tanta University during the period from March 2021 to August 2022 on 100 patients with third or fourth degree hemorrhoids who were randomly assigned either to group A, patients who only underwent hemorrhoidal excision by the classical technique of Milligan–Morgan or group B, with added partial lateral sphincterotomy to the classic technique. All patients in both groups underwent anorectal manometry both preoperatively and postoperatively. Pain following surgery was analyzed by using visual analog scale system at 24 h, 48 h, and on 10th postoperative day, other complications including incontinence, infection, hematoma, bleeding, and anal stricture were evaluated at 24 h, 48 h, 10th postoperative day, 1 month, and after 3 months. Results Total 100 patients were divided among both groups. The mean age of the patients was 37.7±11.3 and 36.3±11.3 years in group A and group B, respectively. Thirty-two males and 18 females were in group A in comparison to 33 males and 17 females in group B. During follow-up periods, patients in group B had less postoperative pain than those in group A with statistically significant difference. None of the patients developed fecal incontinence for solid or liquid stools in both groups, except for nine patients developed only mild degree of incontinence for flatus in the first week that improved gradually till completely resolved before the end of the 3 months follow up. Conclusion The addition of partial internal sphincterotomy to the classical haemorrhoidectomy technique significantly improves postoperative pain without increasing overall related morbidity.

Impact of pelvic floor muscle training on sphincter function and quality-of-life in patients who underwent low anterior resection: A comparative evaluation.

Our study aimed to determine the impact of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) on sphincter function and overall well-being in patients who underwent low anterior resection (LAR) and diverting ileostomy due to rectal cancer. For this purpose, anal electromyography (aEMG), low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) score, and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer quality-of-life questionnaires (EORTC-QLQ)-C30 (generic for cancer) and CR29 (specific to colorectal cancer) were used. The primary endpoint of our study is to determine the effect of PFMT on sphincter function by aEMG, the secondary endpoint is to evaluate the effect on quality-of-life using the LARS score, EORTC-QLQ-C30 and CR-29 questionnaires. Conducted between January 2017 and April 2018 at a tertiary hospital's general surgery clinic, the study included 32 patients between the ages of 18 and 75 who underwent low anterior resection and diverting ileostomy surgery. The patients were divided into two: the Study Group (SG), which started PFMT after surgery, and the Control Group (CG), which was not subjected to additional exercises. Six months after closure of the diverting ileostomy, both groups were evaluated with aEMG, LARS scores, and EORTC-QLQ-C30 and CR-29. aEMG duration values were significantly lower in the SG (17.6 m/sec vs. 19.9 m/sec; p=0.001). Additionally, a significant decrease in SG, major LARS rates (12.5% vs. 62.5%; p=0.004) and LARS scores (23.1 vs. 30.0; p=0.003) was observed. While there was no significant difference between the groups in EORTC-QLQ C30, increased sexual interest and decreased fecal incontinence were observed in SG in EORTC-QLQ-CR29. PFMT significantly improves LARS scores, quality-of-life questionnaires and aEMG parameters, positioning PFMT as an accessible, non-invasive, easy-to-use first-line treatment option in the treatment of LARS.

Evaluation of Patients Developing Anal Incontinence After Vaginal Delivery

Evaluation of Patients Developing Anal Incontinence After Vaginal Delivery

An integrative approach with TROPIS, Tube in Tract and IFTAK therapy in the management of Complex Anal Fistula: An experience

The management of complex anal fistulae is a challenging job because of the possible risk of damage to the anal sphincter leading to fecal continence, high reoccurrence rate, and delayed wound healing. Other challenges include proper drainage of the tract without disturbing anatomical alignment and painless defecation. This case presented to the outpatient department with a history of recurrent boil in the perianal region and painful pus discharge from the site for 15 days. The case was diagnosed as a case of complex fistula-in-ano and was managed by an integrative approach operative procedure under spinal saddle block anesthesia. Principles of application of Interception of Fistulous Tract and Application of Ksharasutra (IFTAK), transanal opening of intersphincteric space, and tube in tract technique were applied in the management. With necessary analgesia and antibiotics for five days, the patient was given Triphala guggulu internally, and sitz bath with Haritaki (Terminalia chebula Retz.) and Neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss.) decoction, postoperatively. Wound dressing was done by application of a gauze piece soaked in Apamarga kshara taila. The management resulted in a painless recovery and the patient started attending his daily routine activities from the 7th post-operative day onwards. Pus discharge ceased soon after the operative procedure. Complete healing of postoperative wounds was achieved in ten weeks with prescribed postoperative care and regimen. For the last year, the patient is free from anal discomfort and no reoccurrence has been reported till now.

Gracilis Flap Restoring Quality of Life in a Patient with Non Functional Anal Sphincter

An excellent technique for reconstructing the perineum following extensive perineal resection for restoration of a traumatised anal sphincter is the Gracilis myocutaneous flap. Direct anal trauma or pelvic injuries can separate the anal sphincters. An overlapping sphincteroplasty has a fair possibility of regaining acceptable fecal continence if roughly half of the sphincter ring is still functional. A case of a 22-year-old male who underwent Gracilis myocutaneous flap reconstruction after being diagnosed with a non functioning anal sphincter is reported. A free muscle transplant was done to repair the sphincter, utilising denervated muscle with an intact blood supply. New muscle was attached to those sphincter muscles which were still functional. The transplanted muscle receives new muscular fibers, enabling the repaired sphincter to contract voluntarily in addition to reflexively. The surgical approach is determined based on the presented sphincter defect. Free muscle transplantation can be preferred in cases where the external sphincter has some degree of functionality.

Surgical Technique for Sphinkeeper® Implantation.

Fecal incontinence is a distressing condition characterized by the involuntary loss of solid and liquid stool and gas, It affects a significant proportion of the general population, with a reported prevalence ranging from 1% to 20%. Despite its considerable impact on quality of life, therapeutic options for fecal incontinence remain limited. Current treatment modalities for fecal incontinence include conservative approaches such as dietary modifications, pelvic floor exercises, and pharmacotherapy. Surgical interventions, including sphincteroplasty or sacral nerve stimulation, may be considered in more severe cases. Recently, THD Labs (THD S.p.A. Correggio (RE), Italy) introduced the Gatekeeper® as a novel device that supports the implantation of up to four solid prostheses into the intersphincteric groove. Early data were promising, with success rates above 50% and only a few perioperative complications. Subsequently, Gatekeeper® was modified by increasing the length and number (up to 10) of prostheses, and renamed Sphinkeeper® (THD). With this device, nine to 10 small incisions measuring 2 mm are made at a distance of 2-3 cm from the anus. The intersphincteric space is accessed using the delivery system, and positioning is verified through endoanal ultrasound. This procedure is repeated for all 10 prostheses placed around the entire circumference. The Sphinkeeper® offers the potential to improve the management of fecal incontinence, and offers patients a less-invasive alternative to traditional surgical approaches.

Analysis of postoperative complications in children treated for moderate to severe anal atresia with laparoscopic versus open surgery: A retrospective study

This study aimed to compare and analyze the postoperative complications and anal function after 3-stage laparoscopic-assisted anorectoplasty (LAARP) and conventional posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) in the treatment of moderate to severe anal atresia in children. A total of 27 children with moderate to severe anal atresia who underwent conventional PSARP at the Dongguan Children Hospital between 2007 and 2011 were included in the control group, and 34 children with moderate to severe anal atresia who underwent 3-stage LAARP between 2012 and 2016 were included in the observation group. The incidence of postoperative complications and Kelly score of anal function in the 2 groups were statistically analyzed and the efficacy of the 2 procedures compared. The incidence of postoperative complications such as wound infection, anal stenosis, anastomotic leakage, fecal incontinence, and constipation in the LAARP group was lower as compared with the PSARP group, and there was a statistically significant difference (P &lt; .05). There was no significant difference in the incidence of postoperative complications such as rectal prolapse, diarrhea, and recurrent fistula between the LAARP group and the PSARP group (P &gt; .05). The Kelly score of anal function was higher in the LAARP group than in the PSARP group, and the difference was statistically significant (P &lt; .05). Compared to conventional PSARP, laparoscopic surgery for moderate to severe anal atresia in children has less complications, improved anal function, and a clear therapeutic impact.

Pelvic floor reconstruction-update 2024: prolapse-associated symptoms and their treatment

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and associated symptoms of urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, obstructive micturition, defecation, and pain are frequent and awidespread disease with relevant reduction of quality of life and high costs. New insights into functional anatomy and pathophysiology of these pelvic floor dysfunctions let us recognize how ligamentous laxities/defects lead to these dysfunctions. Results of the PROpel study (ClinicalTrials.gov-Identifier: NCT00638235) are shown in which adetailed observation of symptoms (patient-related outcome measures) pre- and postoperatively was performed. Ligamentous vaginal repair of POP enables symptom cure in high percentages for urinary urge incontinence (up to 82%), nocturia (up to 92%), obstructive micturition (up to 87%), fecal incontinence (58-72%), obstructive defecation (71-84%), and pain (53-90%), if caused by POP. Women with POP‑Q stage2 have similar symptom frequencies as women with POP‑Q stage3-4, and also similar cure rates of their symptoms. If good anatomical prolapse repair (in responders) was achieved, the cure rates for obstructive micturition, urinary urgency incontinence, and nocturia were significantly higher than in those women with less effective surgical repair. In the future, pelvic floor surgery should have symptom cure as the primary objective and should lead to improved quality of life. The different, currently performed techniques for POP repair have to be investigated concerning this matter.