Fecal Incontinence Severity Research Articles

Does Bariatric Surgery Improve Faecal Incontinence? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

IntroductionObesity increases the risk of pelvic floor disorders in individuals with obesity, including faecal incontinence. Faecal incontinence (FI) is a condition with important clinical and psychosocial consequences. Though it is associated with obesity, the effect of bariatric surgery on the prevalence and severity of FI is not well reported.ObjectiveTo assess the effect of bariatric surgery on the prevalence and severity of FI in adult patients with obesity.MethodsThis systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA statement. Two independent reviewers performed a literature search in MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane and Embase from 1 January 1980 to 12 January 2019. We included published English-language randomized control trials and observational studies assessing pre- and post-bariatric surgery prevalence or severity of FI. Random-effects models with DerSimonian and Laird’s variance estimator were used for meta-analysis.ResultsThirteen studies were included, eight assessing prevalence (678 patients) and 11 assessing severity of FI (992 patients). There was no significant difference in prevalence post-operatively overall, though it trended towards a reduction [pooled OR=0.55; =0.075]. There was a significant reduction of FI prevalence in women post-bariatric surgery [95% CI 0.22 to 0.94, p=0.034]. There was a statistically significant reduction in FI prevalence following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and one anastomosis gastric bypass [0.46, 95% CI 0.26 to 0.81; p=0.007]. There was no significant reduction of incontinence episodes post-operatively [pooled mean difference =−0.17, 95% CI −0.90 to 0.56; p=0.65]. Quality of life (QOL) was not significantly improved post-bariatric surgery [mean differences for the following facets of QOL: behaviour −0.35, 95% CI −0.94 to 0.24; depression 0.04, 95% CI −0.12 to 0.2; lifestyle −0.33, 95% CI −0.98 to 0.33; p values of 0.25, 0.61 and 0.33, respectively].DiscussionThere was a significant reduction in FI prevalence in women and those who underwent Roux-en-Y or one anastomosis gastric bypass. Our results for FI prevalence overall, FI severity and impact on quality of life were not statistically significant. Larger studies are needed in this under-researched area to determine the true effect of bariatric surgery on FI.Graphical abstract

Kegel Exercises, Biofeedback, Electrostimulation, and Peripheral Neuromodulation Improve Clinical Symptoms of Fecal Incontinence and Affect Specific Physiological Targets: An Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background/AimsFecal incontinence (FI) is a prevalent condition among community-dwelling women, and has a major impact on quality of life (QoL). Research on treatments commonly used in clinical practice—Kegel exercises, biofeedback, electrostimulation, and transcutaneous neuromodulation—give discordant results and some lack methodological rigor, making scientific evidence weak. The aim is to assess the clinical efficacy of these 4 treatments on community-dwelling women with FI and their impact on severity, QoL and anorectal physiology.MethodsA randomized controlled trial was conducted on 150 females with FI assessed with anorectal manometry and endoanal ultrasonography, and pudendal nerve terminal motor latency, anal/rectal sensory-evoked-potentials, clinical severity, and QoL were determined. Patients were randomly assigned to one of the following groups Kegel (control), biofeedback + Kegel, electrostimulation + Kegel, and neuromodulation + Kegel, treated for 3 months and re-evaluated, then followed up after 6 months.ResultsMean age was 61.09 ± 12.17. Severity of FI and QoL was significantly improved in a similar way after all treatments. The effect on physiology was treatment-specific Kegel and electrostimulation + Kegel, increased resting pressure (P < 0.05). Squeeze pressures strongly augmented with biofeedback + Kegel, electrostimulation + Kegel and neuromodulation + Kegel (P < 0.01). Endurance of squeeze increased in biofeedback + Kegel and electrostimulation + Kegel (P < 0.01). Rectal perception threshold was reduced in the biofeedback + Kegel, electrostimulation + Kegel, and neuromodulation + Kegel (P < 0.05); anal sensory-evoked-potentials latency shortened in patients with electrostimulation + Kegel (P < 0.05).ConclusionsThe treatments for FI assessed have a strong and similar efficacy on severity and QoL but affect specific pathophysiological mechanisms. This therapeutic specificity can help to develop more efficient multimodal algorithm treatments for FI based on pathophysiological phenotypes.

Japanese Practice Guidelines for Fecal Incontinence Part 1-Definition, Epidemiology, Etiology, Pathophysiology and Causes, Risk Factors, Clinical Evaluations, and Symptomatic Scores and QoL Questionnaire for Clinical Evaluations-English Version.

Fecal incontinence (FI) is defined as involuntary or uncontrollable loss of feces. Gas incontinence is defined as involuntary or uncontrollable loss of flatus, while anal incontinence is defined as the involuntary loss of feces or flatus. The prevalence of FI in people over 65 in Japan is 8.7% in the male population and 6.6% among females. The etiology of FI is usually not limited to one specific cause, with risk factors for FI including physiological factors, such as age and gender; comorbidities, such as diabetes and irritable bowel syndrome; and obstetric factors, such as multiple deliveries, home delivery, first vaginal delivery, and forceps delivery. In the initial clinical evaluation of FI, the factors responsible for individual symptoms are gathered from the history and examination of the anorectal region. The evaluation is the basis of all medical treatments for FI, including initial treatment, and also serves as a baseline for deciding the need for a specialized defecation function test and selecting treatment in stages. Following the general physical examination, together with history taking, inspection (including anoscope), and palpation (including digital anorectal and vaginal examination) of the anorectal area, clinicians can focus on the causes of FI. For the clinical evaluation of FI, it is useful to use Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs), such as scores and questionnaires, to evaluate the symptomatic severity of FI and its influence over quality of life (QoL).

Comparison of patient-reported quality of life and functional outcomes following laparoscopic and transanal total mesorectal excision of rectal cancer.

PurposeThe effect of transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) on patients' quality of life and functional outcomes is not fully understood. This study aimed to compare the quality of life and bowel, anorectal, and urogenital functions after laparoscopic and TaTME.MethodsLaparoscopic or TaTME was performed for 202 propensity score-matched patient pairs with rectal cancer between January 2014 and December 2017 at the National Cancer Center, Korea. The outcomes for all patients were assessed using anorectal manometry, the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Core Quality of Life Questionnaire (QLQ-C30) and Colorectal Cancer-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (QLQ-CR38), low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) score, Fecal Incontinence Severity Index, and International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). This retrospective comparative study included patients who completed anorectal manometry and the questionnaires before treatment and at 1 year after surgery.ResultsThe EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-CR38 showed comparable outcomes regarding the quality of life in both groups. More patients experienced major LARS in the transanal group at 1 year postoperatively (31.0% vs. 6.8% in the laparoscopic group, P = 0.004). Multivariable analysis revealed no significant difference in the LARS score between the groups at 1 year postoperatively (odds ratio, 2.30; 95% confidence interval, 0.79–6.72; P = 0.127). Significant differences in the IPSS were not noted between the groups.ConclusionThe quality of life and functional outcomes were comparable between the laparoscopic and transanal approaches; however, our findings suggest a higher rate of LARS after TaTME.

Video-Assisted Modified Ligation of the Intersphincteric Fistula Tract, an Integration of 2 Minimally Invasive Techniques for the Treatment of Parks Type II Anal Fistulas.

Introduction. Complex anal fistula (CAF) is a challenging anorectal condition. Although numerous treatments for its management have been proposed, none is ideal. Herein, we investigated the clinical efficacy of video-assisted modified ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) in comparison with the incision-thread-drawing procedure for Parks type II anal fistulas. Methods. Male and female adult patients with Parks type II anal fistula who were randomized to receive one of two procedures in the Anorectal Surgery Unit of the Affiliated People's Hospital of Ningbo University: video-assisted modified LIFT (test group, 30 cases) or incision thread drawing (control group, 30 cases). Healing and recurrence, postoperative pain, and postoperative autonomous anal control ability were compared. Results. In the test group, the pain scores were significantly lower (P = .001) and wound healing was faster (P = .001). However, there were no marked differences between groups in operative efficacy or postoperative infection rate (all P > .05). We followed all the patients for more than 18months, with the test group having lower Jorge-Wexner incontinence (P = .005) and fecal incontinence (FI) severity index (P = .000) scores. No significant difference in recurrence (χ2 = .351, P = .554) or healing (χ2 = 1.071, P = .301) rate was found between the 2 groups. Conclusions. We established that video-assisted modified LIFT is superior in repairing Parks type II anal fistulas, with less trauma, quicker recovery, and better anal function.

Effectiveness of percutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation for the management of bowel dysfunction in multiple sclerosis patients

Background: Neurogenic bowel dysfunctions (NBDs) in the form of both fecal incontinence (FI) and functional constipation (FC) are frequent in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and significantly affect their quality of life. Therapeutic options are limited. Objective: To investigate effectiveness of percutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) in MS patients suffering from FI and FC. Methods: Prevalence and severity of FI and FC were prospectively collected among MS patients undergoing 12 weeks of PTNS for neurogenic bladder. The Cleveland Clinic Fecal Incontinence Score (CCFIS) and the Rome III criteria were used to define FI and FC, respectively. Subjective treatment satisfaction was estimated using the Benefit Satisfaction and Willingness to Continue (BSWC) questionnaire. Results: A total of 60 patients undergoing PTNS suffered from NBDs (25 FI+/FC+, 5 FI+/FC–, 30 FI–/FC+). Median CCFIS decreased after PTNS from 12.0 (11.0–13.0) to 8.5 (7.0–11.0, p < 0.001), with particular improvements in liquid and flatal incontinence, pads’ need, and lifestyle restrictions. Seven patients became FC free after PTNS and no patients developed FC during the study (p = 0.023). More than 50% of the patients were satisfied and willing to continue PTNS at study end. Conclusion: PTNS represents a valid minimally invasive alternative treatment for MS patients suffering from NBDs.

Efficacy of video-assisted anal fistula treatment combined with closure of the internal opening using a stapler for Parks II anal fistula.

BackgroundTo explore the efficacy of video-assisted anal fistula treatment (VAAFT) combined with an internal-opening closure technique using a stapler in the treatment of Parks II anal fistula.MethodsFrom September 2017 to June 2019, 75 patients with Parks II anal fistulas in Beijing Erlonglu Hospital were enrolled and randomly allocated into two groups. The 37 patients in the treatment group received VAAFT combined with internal-opening closure techniques, and the 38 patients in the control group were treated with anal fistulotomy with seton placement. The primary outcomes included the healing rate and recurrence, the fecal incontinence severity index (FISI) score, and the Wexner incontinence score during the 6-month postoperative follow-up.ResultsThirty-two cases were healed in the treatment group (86.5%) and thirty-six cases were cured in the control group (94.7%). There was no notable difference in the healing rate between the two groups (P=0.487). Significant differences between the groups were observed in the Wexner incontinence and FISI scores at 1, 3, and 6 months after the operation (P=0.001). Furthermore, the wound healing time in the treatment group was significantly shorter than in the control group (P<0.05), while the numerical rating scale (NRS) for postoperative pain on the first day and 1 week after the operation were significantly lower in the treatment group than in the control group (P<0.05).ConclusionsVAAFT combined with closure of the internal opening using a stapler is effective and safe for Parks II anal fistula, and should be promoted as a promising treatment.

Characterization of symptom severity and impact on four fecal incontinence phenotypes in women presenting for evaluation.

To characterize symptom-specific distress and impact on quality of life (QOL) among women with urge, passive, and combined urge/passive fecal incontinence (FI) phenotypes. A secondary aim was to characterize FI symptom-specific distress and impact on women with a novel fourth phenotype, stress FI. Women with at least monthly FI from 2003 to 2017 were included. Participants completed the Modified Manchester Health Questionnaire (MMHQ)including MHQand Fecal Incontinence Severity Index (FISI). Anorectal manometry (ARM) and endoanal ultrasound (EAUS) testing was performed. Total MHQ and FISI scores were compared across FI subtypes controlling for pertinent baseline covariates. The cohort included 404 subjects, 220 meeting criteria for urge FI, 67 passive FI, and 117 combined urge/passive FI. On MHQ, women with combined urge/passive FI were most impacted (p < 0.01). FISI scores were significantly different from combined urge/passive FI having the greatest impact (38.1 ± 12.5) and urge FI (31.1 ± 11.3), p < 0.01 having the least. No differences were observed in ARM measurements or anal sphincter defects among the three groups (all p > 0.05). Twenty-nine subjects were identified with stress FI. There were no differences in overall MHQ or FISI scores or anal sphincter evaluation among the urge, passive, and stress FI groups (all p > 0.05). Women with combined urge/passive FI have higher symptom distress and impact on QOLthan urge or passive FI alone. Further research is needed to determine the significance of stress FI as a subtype and response to treatment.

Loose combined cutting seton for patients with high intersphincteric fistula: a retrospective study.

BackgroundAchieving a complete cure while maintaining continence constitutes a considerable challenge in the treatment of patients with high anal fistula. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of loose combined cutting seton (LCCS) for treating patients with high intersphincteric fistula.MethodsConsecutive patients with high intersphincteric fistula who underwent LCCS were retrospectively enrolled. Patient data including demographics, medical history, comorbidities, details of the fistula, operative procedure, and prognosis were collected. Postoperative pain was assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS), which ranged from 0 (no pain) to 10 (extremely severe pain). The severity of fecal incontinence was assessed using the Wexner Continence Grading Scale, with a total score ranging from 0 (no incontinence) to 20 (complete incontinence). The primary outcome was the healing rate of fistula. Secondary outcomes included the recurrence rate of fistula and the severity of fecal incontinence.ResultsThe 22 patients (male: female =18:4) in our study had a median follow-up of 55 (range, 32–568) days. The healing rate was 100%, and none of the patients experienced fistula recurrence. At the follow-up visit, 19 patients (86.4%) reported no fecal incontinence. The median total Wexner score was 0. 95.5% patients had VAS score of 0 and only 1 patient (4.5%) had a VAS score of 1, which indicated a low level of postoperative pain.ConclusionsLCCS achieved a high healing rate with an increased level of continence, as well as a low level of postoperative pain, in most patients with high anal fistula in our study. Further randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm the effectiveness of this novel seton-based technique.

Tools for fecal incontinence assessment: lessons for inflammatory bowel disease trials based on a systematic review.

Fecal incontinence is a disabling condition affecting up to 20% of women. We investigated fecal incontinence assessment in both inflammatory bowel disease and non-inflammatory bowel disease patients to propose a diagnostic approach for inflammatory bowel disease trials. We searched on Pubmed, Embase and Cochrane Library for all studies on adult inflammatory bowel disease and non-inflammatory bowel disease patients reporting data on fecal incontinence assessment from January 2009 to December 2019. In total, 328 studies were included; 306 studies enrolled non-inflammatory bowel disease patients and 22 studies enrolled inflammatory bowel disease patients. In non-inflammatory bowel disease trials the most used tools were the Wexner score, fecal incontinence quality of life questionnaire, Vaizey score and fecal incontinence severity index (in 187, 91, 62 and 33 studies). Anal manometry was adopted in 41.2% and endoanal ultrasonography in 34.0% of the studies. In 142 studies (46.4%) fecal incontinence evaluation was performed with a single instrument, while in 64 (20.9%) and 100 (32.7%) studies two or more instruments were used. In inflammatory bowel disease studies the Wexner score, Vaizey score and inflammatory bowel disease quality of life questionnaire were the most commonly adopted tools (in five (22.7%), five (22.7%) and four (18.2%) studies). Anal manometry and endoanal ultrasonography were performed in 45.4% and 18.2% of the studies. Based on prior validation and experience, we propose to use the Wexner score as the first step for fecal incontinence assessment in inflammatory bowel disease trials. Anal manometry and/or endoanal ultrasonography should be taken into account in the case of positive questionnaires.

S0458 Does Fecal Incontinence Symptom Severity Evaluated by Symptom Summation and Individual Fecal Incontinence Components Predict Rectal Hypersensitivity in a Large Fecal Incontinence Cohort?

INTRODUCTION: Rectal sensation contributes significantly to the process of continence. Rectal hypersensitivity (RH) has been associated with a greater perception to defecate, increase lifestyle restrictions, and decrease quality of life domains in patients with fecal incontinence (FI). RH to rectal sensation measurements during an anorectal manometry (ARM) are often reported by patients with FI. Our hypothesis is that higher self-reported FI symptom severity will be associated with RH. METHODS: Retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 955 FI patients ≥18 years of age who were referred for ARM at a single tertiary medical center from 6/11 to 3/20. All patients completed the Fecal Incontinence Severity Index (FISI) questionnaire (0–61 scale: higher scores representing greater symptom severity). FISI components, gas (0–12), mucous (0–12), liquid (0–19), and stool (0–18) were scored using the patient validated metrics instead of physician values. RH was defined as balloon distention volume documented in the FI literature: First Sensation (FS) as ≤38 ml and Urge-to-Defecate (UD) as ≤80 ml. Independent t-tests were performed to assess the mean difference of FISI summation (FISI-Sum) and FISI components (FISI-C) between FI patients categorized as RH vs. normal rectal sensation (NRS) and sex (male vs. female). A P-value of ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Demographics (N = 955) were as follows: mean age 60.4 ± 14.1 years (19–91), mean BMI 29.3 ± 6.6, 73.6% female, and 90.7% Caucasian. No demographics differences between genders. The mean FISI-Sum and FISI-C scores for entire sample were 35.8 ± 12.5: Gas (10.2 ± 2.7), Mucous (7.9 ± 3.4), Liquid (13.5 ± 4.3), and Stool (12.8 ± 3.6). RH measured by FS and UD criteria for the sample were 29.1% and 49.1%. No significant differences in FISI-Sum and FISI-C related to RH using FS besides Liquid incontinence reported greater severity by NRS (P = 0.001) (Table 1). No significant differences in FISI-Sum and FISI-C between the RH and NRS groups in males. Females in the NSR group self-reported greater Liquid incontinence (P = 0.003) vs. the RH group measured by FS and no differences between RH and NRS groups using UD. CONCLUSION: Rectal hypersensitivity did not predict FI severity and may reduce the amount of liquid FI in patients. Therefore, the use of anorectal rectal function testing including rectal sensation metrics and rectal sensory re-training are necessary for evaluating and improving defecatory sensations.Table 1

Clinical effects of intrathecal administration of expanded Wharton jelly mesenchymal stromal cells in patients with chronic complete spinal cord injury: a randomized controlled study

Background aimsSpinal cord injury (SCI) represents a devastating condition leading to severe disability related to motor, sensory and autonomic dysfunction. Stem cell transplantation is considered a potential emerging therapy to stimulate neuroplastic and neuroregenerative processes after SCI. In this clinical trial, the authors investigated the safety and clinical recovery effects of intrathecal infusion of expanded Wharton jelly mesenchymal stromal cells (WJ-MSCs) in chronic complete SCI patients. MethodsThe authors designed a randomized, double-blind, crossover, placebo-controlled, phase 1/2a clinical trial (NCT03003364). Participants were 10 patients (7 males, 3 females, age range, 25–47 years) with chronic complete SCI (American Spinal Injury Association A) at dorsal level (T3-11). Patients were randomly assigned to receive a single dose of intrathecal ex vivo-expanded WJ-MSCs (10 × 106 cells) from human umbilical cord or placebo and were then switched to the other arm at 6 months. Clinical evaluation (American Spinal Injury Association impairment scale motor and sensory score, spasticity, neuropathic pain, electrical perception and pain thresholds), lower limb motor evoked potentials (MEPs) and sensory evoked potentials (SEPs), Spinal Cord Independence Measure and World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Version were assessed at baseline, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months after each intervention. Urodynamic studies and urinary-specific quality of life (Qualiveen questionnaire) as well as anorectal manometry, functional assessment of bowel dysfunction (Rome III diagnostic questionnaire) and severity of fecal incontinence (Wexner score) were conducted at baseline and at 6 months after each intervention. ResultsIntrathecal transplantation of WJ-MSCs was considered safe, with no significant side effects. Following MSC infusion, the authors found significant improvement in pinprick sensation in the dermatomes below the level of injury compared with placebo. Other clinically relevant effects, such as an increase in bladder maximum capacity and compliance and a decrease in bladder neurogenic hyperactivity and external sphincter dyssynergy, were observed only at the individual level. No changes in motor function, spasticity, MEPs, SEPs, bowel function, quality of life or independence measures were observed. ConclusionsIntrathecal transplantation of human umbilical cord-derived WJ-MSCs is a safe intervention. A single intrathecal infusion of WJ-MSCs in patients with chronic complete SCI induced sensory improvement in the segments adjacent to the injury site.

Effects of Dietary Guidance without Dietary Fiber Supplements on the Symptoms, Quality of Life, and Dietary Intake in Patients with Fecal Incontinence.

Objectives: Dietary fiber (DF) supplements improve fecal incontinence (FI). Here, we investigated the effects of dietary guidance without DF supplements in patients with FI. Methods: This was an interventional study on the nutritional guidance alone by a dietitian where outcomes were compared before and one month after the guidance. In this study, participants attended a one 20-min dietary guidance session and received individual guidance on dietary management according to the 2017 Japanese FI guidelines, between January 2016 and March 2019. The main assessment items used were as follows: (i) the Fecal Incontinence Severity Index (FISI) to assess symptoms, (ii) the Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life Scale (FIQL) to assess the quality of life, and (iii) the dietary intake per day. Results: Out of 61 patients who participated in this study, 50 (82%) completed the entire study and 29 (48%) continued a self-controlled diet therapy without drug treatment. Of the 50 patients, the FISI and FIQL scores were significantly improved after the guidance (FISI: 19 before vs. 10.5 after, P < 0.001; FIQL: 2.9 before vs. 3.2 after, P < 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in the overall DF intake before and after the dietary guidance. However, foods containing DF changed significantly after the guidance. The intake of rice was significantly increased, whilst that of fruits, dairy products, and confectioneries was significantly reduced after the guidance. Conclusions: Individual dietary guidance without DF supplements was effective. These results suggested that increasing rice consumption and restricting some foods had positive effects on improving FI.

The relationships between the results of contemporary tests of anorectal structure and sensorimotor function and the severity of fecal incontinence.

Diagnostic investigations for fecal incontinence (FI) assess the structure and sensorimotor function of the anorectum. Investigations include anorectal manometry, anorectal sensory testing, pudendal nerve terminal motor latencies (PNTML), and endoanal sonography. The severity of FI and results of investigations are often discordant andtherate of symptom resolution following treatment remains <40%. High-resolution anorectal manometry (HRAM) and three-dimensional endoanal ultrasound (3D-US) have been introduced during the last decade.This study aims to assess the strength of relationships between contemporary investigation results and FI severity. Adults presenting for investigation of FI were assessed using the St Mark's FI severity score (SMIS),HRAM, anorectal sensory testing, PNTML, and 3D-US. 246 patients were included.There were significant relationships between the SMIS andHRAM (resting pressure rs = -0.23, 95% CI = (-0.34, -0.11), P<.001; squeeze pressure (rs = -0.26, 95% CI = (-0.37, -0.14), P< .001) and 3D-US (anterior EAS length rs = -0.22, 95% CI = (-0.34, -0.09), P= .001). The relationships between SMIS and HRAM had a greater effect size in those with urge-predominant symptoms (resting pressure: rs = -0.40, 95% CI = (-0.57, -0.20), P< .001, squeeze pressure: rs = -0.34, 95% CI = (-0.52, -0.12), P= .003).Overall, the variance in SMIS accounted for by anorectal investigations was 8.6% (R2 = 0.098, adjusted R2 = 0.086, P < .001). Anorectal investigations are not strong predictors of FI severity. These findings may reflect the multifactorial, heterogeneous pathophysiology of FI, the limitations of the SMIS and anorectal investigations, and contributing factors extrinsic to the anorectum.

The severity of symptoms is insufficient to predict major alterations to quality of life of patients with fecal incontinence or chronic constipation.

Evaluate the impact of fecal incontinence (FI) and chronic constipation (CC) on the quality of life (QoL) in a large population and determine if a threshold of symptom scores was associated with alterations to QoL. A total of 422 outpatients with FI (n= 186), CC (n= 186), and mixed FI-CC (n= 50) referred for anorectal manometry were included prospectively. All patients completed a set of questionnaires to evaluate the severity of FI and CC (respectively Jorge and Wexner and KESS scores) and their impact on QoL (Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI)). The study population included 81.8% women. The QoL was altered to the same degree for both FI and CC, with significant more marked impairments in patients with mixed FI-CC (median GIQLI: 91 (71-108) vs. 91 (73-108) vs. 81 (57-97) respectively, p= 0.05). The symptom severity significantly but weekly correlated with the GIQLI score (r2 = - 0.454 for FI and r2 = - 0.483 for CC, p < 0.001). Thus, the large dispersion of the data flawed the identification of a threshold for symptom severity that could predict major impairment to QoL. The QoL was equally altered for FI and CC. Although the symptom score severity was slightly but significantly associated with alterations to QoL, it was not possible to determine a threshold for symptom scores that predict an alteration to QoL. Therefore, the evaluation of QoL in parallel to the assessment of the symptom score is required to endorse the entire spectrum of the severity of CC or FI.

Health and quality of life among a cohort of patients having lateral internal sphincterotomy for anal fissures.

The aim of this study is to report changes in health-related quality of life attributable to lateral internal sphincterotomy for treatment of anal fissure. There is very little evidence on whether the overall health-related quality of life of patients is detrimentally affected by the condition, or which aspects of self-perceived health status improve after lateral internal sphincterotomy. This study will articulate which aspects of health tend to improve and guide postoperative expectations appropriately. Knowledge gained from this study may also identify gaps in an individual patient's episode of care. Patients were prospectively identified when they consented to surgical treatment of their anal fissure and were contacted by phone to participate. Participants completed a number of patient-reported outcomes preoperatively and 6months postoperatively. Faecal incontinence-related quality of life, pain and depression were measured at both time points. The severity of faecal incontinence was measured at both times. Participants reported high levels of pain preoperatively. Postoperatively, improvement in pain exceeded the threshold of clinical relevance (P<0.01). Thirty-five per cent of participants reported significant effects of faecal incontinence preoperatively, while 26% did so postoperatively. Participants with multiple comorbidities were more likely to report faecal incontinence postoperatively than preoperatively. This study reports that lateral internal sphincterotomy improved pain symptoms without adverse effects on continence. Not all domains of health-related quality of life were similarly positively affected by anal fissure repair.

Video-Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment for Treatment of Complex Cryptoglandular Anal Fistulas with 2 Years Follow-Up Period: Our Experience.

Aim: The aim of this prospective, nonrandomized, observational study was to present our results in operative treatment of complex anal fistulas using video-assisted anal fistula treatment (VAAFT) procedure with a curative intent in 2 years follow-up period. Materials and Methods: Between March 2016 and March 2018, 73 patients underwent the VAAFT procedure. Postoperative follow-up was 2 years, up to March 2020. Only patients with complex cryptoglandular anal fistulas were included. All patients were referred for magnetic resonance imaging of the pelvis. Fecal incontinence severity index score was used to assess any continence disturbance prior operation and postoperatively. Result: Primary healing occurred in 52 cases (71.23%) after first operation. From 21 patients who had recurrence or who had persisting disease, 16 patients accepted reoperation with second VAAFT procedure and additionally 10 patients achieved healing. From a total number of 73 patients who were included in study healing ultimately occurred in 62 cases (84.93%). In the first operation internal opening was identified in 47 cases (64.38%) and was closed with mattress suture, rectal advancement flap or ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract technique depending on its extent and type of fistula. Median primary healing rate was 6 weeks. There were no serious intra- or postoperative complications. None of the patients reported any type of continence disturbance. Discussion: VAAFT has been shown to offer good rates of healing, low morbidities, possibilities of multiple attempts in case of first failure and this series adds to the literature.

Predictive Factors and Effects of Replaced Rectorectal Intussusception on Functional Outcomes in Patients with Rectoanal Intussusception Who Have Undergone Laparoscopic Ventral Rectopexy

Rectoanal intussusception (RAI) treated using laparoscopic ventral rectopexy (LVR) may give rise to rectorectal intussusception (RRI) during defecation postoperatively. However, only a few studies have analyzed the results of LVR using pelvic floor imaging, which is important when interpreting postoperative symptoms in patients with RAI. Thus, this study was designed to find the preoperative variables that may help predict the postoperative occurrence of RRI and to determine whether RRI may have negative effects on bowel symptoms after LVR for RAI. Consecutive patients treated between 2012 and 2017 were included. Defecatory function was evaluated using the Constipation Scoring System (CSS) and the Fecal Incontinence Severity Index (FISI). Defecography was performed before and 6 months after LVR. Of the 66 patients with RAI preoperatively, 34 had mixed obstructed defecation (OD) and fecal incontinence (FI), 18 had OD alone, and 12 had FI alone. Twelve months after surgery, a reduction of at least 50% was observed in the CSS score of 25 patients (52%) with OD and in the FISI of 37 incontinent patients (87%). Postoperatively, RAI was replaced with RRI in 21 and posterior RAI in 2 patients. These anatomical changes were found in patients who had a greater anorectal angle at rest preoperatively. However, the improvement in bowel symptoms was unrelated to the anatomical changes. Improvement in bowel symptoms after LVR for RAI was unrelated to the postoperative occurrence of RRI or posterior RAI, which were found in patients who had a vertical rectum at rest preoperatively.

An Important Problem After Colorectal Cancer Surgery: Fecal Incontinence

Son yıllarda kolorektal kanser tanısı konan hasta sayısının artması ile birlikte kolorektal cerrahi oranı da giderek artmaktadır. Kanser tedavisine bağlı olarak ortaya çıkan bağırsak disfonksiyonu bireylerin defekasyon sorunları ile karşı karşıya kalmasına neden olmaktadır.Kolorektal cerrahi sonrası sıklıkla karşımıza çıkan sorun fekal inkontinanstır. Bu sorunla karşılaşan bireyler damgalanma, utanma, kontrol kaybı duygusu, tuvalete yetişememe endişesi taşımaktadır. Bu nedenle de bireyler fekal inkontinas yaşadığını çevresindeki diğer bireylerle ve sağlık profesyoneli ile paylaşmaktan çekinmekte ve sosyal ortamlardan uzaklaşmaktadırlar. Sosyal ortamlardan uzaklaşmak, yaşam tarzında meydana gelen değişiklikler ve psikolojik sorunlar, bireylerin yaşam kalitesini olumsuz yönde etkilemektedir. Bu nedenle fekal inkontinans şiddetinin en kısa sürede belirlenmesi ve tedavi edilmesi gerekmektedir. Fekal inkontinans tedavisi için pelvik taban egzersizleri, biyofeedback, elektrik stimulasyonu, diyet düzenlemeleri ve ilaç tedavileri önerilmektedir. Kolorektal cerrahiye bağlı olarak görülen bu durumda yüksek risk grubundaki hastaların ve uygun tedavi seçeneklerinin belirlenmesinde hemşire anahtar rol oynamaktadır. Aynı zamanda hemşireler fekal inkontinans sorunu yaşayan hastaların fiziksel-psikososyal sorunlar ile baş etmesinde, yaşam şeklinin düzenlenmesinde, boşaltım alışkanlıklarının düzenlenmesinde aktif rol oynamaktadır. Hemşire hastaların eğitim, danışmanlık, bakım rollerini üstlenmektedir.

Correlation of anorectal manometry measures to severity of fecal incontinence in patients with anorectal malformations \u2013 a cross-sectional study

Anorectal malformations (ARM) are a spectrum of anomalies of the rectum and anal canal affecting 1 in 2500 to 5000 live births. Functional problems are common and related to the type of ARM and associated malformations. We aimed to evaluate the results of Three-dimensional High Resolution Anorectal Manometry (3D-HRAM) in long-term follow-up after surgical correction of ARM with special reference to fecal incontinence. Twenty-one patients with anorectal malformations and primary repair at our center consented to participate in the study. Pressures of the anal sphincter muscles and defects were addressed by 3D-HRAM. Fecal incontinence and disease-specific quality of life were evaluated by the Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life score and Wexner incontinence score respectively. The study was approved by the Committee in Health Research Ethics and the Danish Data Protection Agency. Median age was 22(12–31) years and 13(67%) participants were females. Sphincter defect was present in 48% (N = 10) of participants. Participants with sphincter defects had significant higher Wexner score and size of sphincter defects and mean anal squeeze pressure were correlated to Wexner score. Participants with or without sphincter defects did not differ on manometry parameters including resting anal and squeeze pressure or disease-specific quality of life. In a study of the long-term outcome after repair of anorectal malformations we found a higher Wexner incontinence score in the presence of an anal sphincter defect and the size of the defect and mean anal squeeze pressure were correlated to the Wexner incontinence score.