Fecal incontinence: hope for an underdiagnosed condition

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Colorectal Surgery
• Pelvic Floor Medicine

Background:

• Fecal incontinence (FI) is a prevalent condition often leading to social isolation and underdiagnosis.
• Historically, a lack of understanding of continence and defecation mechanisms hindered effective management.
• Recent decades have seen significant progress in understanding the physiology of defecation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline a logical algorithm for assessing patients with fecal incontinence.
• To present current, evidence-based management strategies for categorized fecal incontinence patients.
• To bridge the gap between patient assessment and tailored treatment plans.

Main Methods:

• Quantification of key physiological parameters related to fecal incontinence.
• Development of a logical diagnostic algorithm for patient evaluation.
• Categorization of patients based on assessment findings for targeted management.

Main Results:

• Physiological parameter quantification enables objective patient assessment.
• A structured approach allows for logical categorization of fecal incontinence severity and type.
• Management strategies are now aligned with patient categorization, offering a stepwise approach.

Conclusions:

• Advances in understanding and assessment have transformed fecal incontinence management.
• A logical, algorithm-based approach translates assessment into effective, individualized treatment plans.
• Management options are diverse, encompassing non-operative and surgical interventions for improved quality of life.