Bio-feedback treatment of fecal incontinence: where are we, and where are we going?

Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 16, 2026

Therapeutic Evaluation of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in an Interleukin 10-Deficient Mouse Model
05:41

Therapeutic Evaluation of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in an Interleukin 10-Deficient Mouse Model

Published on: April 6, 2022

Giuseppe Chiarioni1, Barbara Ferri, Antonio Morelli

  • 1Division of Gastroenterological Rehabilitation, University of Verona, Valeggio sul Mincio Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliera of Verona, Verona, Italy.

World Journal of Gastroenterology
|August 13, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Bio-feedback therapy for fecal incontinence shows promise, with early studies reporting over 70% success. However, recent trials question these findings, highlighting the need for more research to confirm its effectiveness as a primary treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation

Background:

  • Fecal incontinence (FI) is a disabling condition with significant psycho-social impact, particularly in younger individuals.
  • Bio-feedback has been widely reported as an effective treatment for fecal incontinence, with high short-term success rates.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy of bio-feedback techniques in managing fecal incontinence.
  • To address the discrepancy between reported success rates and findings from recent controlled trials.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on bio-feedback for fecal incontinence.
  • Analysis of data from numerous studies and recent controlled trials.

Main Results:

  • Early literature suggests a success rate exceeding 70% for bio-feedback in short-term fecal incontinence treatment.
  • Recent controlled trials have not consistently confirmed these high success rates, suggesting a greater role for standard care.

Conclusions:

  • Despite conflicting evidence, many experts advocate for bio-feedback as a first-line therapy for fecal incontinence due to its perceived efficacy, safety, and minimal invasiveness.
  • Further well-designed randomized controlled trials are essential to resolve the therapeutic dilemma surrounding bio-feedback for fecal incontinence.

More Related Videos

Real-time fMRI Biofeedback Targeting the Orbitofrontal Cortex for Contamination Anxiety10:51

Real-time fMRI Biofeedback Targeting the Orbitofrontal Cortex for Contamination Anxiety

Published on: January 20, 2012

Related Concept Videos

Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management01:21

Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management

Surgical interventions for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, are essential in managing symptoms and addressing complications. The selection of surgical procedures is contingent upon the specific conditions and complications that stem from these illnesses.
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
Drugs for Treatment of Constipation-Predominant IBS01:21

Drugs for Treatment of Constipation-Predominant IBS

Pharmacological therapies for IBS-C are designed to alleviate abdominal discomfort and enhance bowel function. In patients with IBS-C, fiber supplements may help soften stools and decrease straining, but may also lead to increased gas production and bloating. Osmotic laxatives like milk of magnesia are frequently used to soften stools and increase stool frequency in IBS-C patients. In addition, two drugs approved for use in severe IBS-C adult cases are linaclotide (Linzess) and lubiprostone...
Drugs for Treatment of Diarrhea-Predominant IBS01:17

Drugs for Treatment of Diarrhea-Predominant IBS

Diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) is a subtype of IBS characterized primarily by frequent, loose, or watery stools, abdominal pain, and abdominal discomfort. Therapeutic approaches to managing IBS-D include dietary changes, stress management techniques, and pharmaceutical interventions.
Two specific drugs used in the treatment are alosetron (Lotronex) and eluxadoline (Viberzi). Alosetron, a 5-HT3 antagonist, works by slowing the movement of stools in the gut, reducing bowel...
What is Monogastric Digestion?01:50

What is Monogastric Digestion?

The human body contains a monogastric digestive system. In a monogastric digestive system, the stomach only contains one chamber in which it digests food. Several other animal species also have monogastric digestive systems, including pigs, horses, dogs, and birds. This chapter, however, focuses on the human digestive system.
Urinary Tract Infection III: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care01:30

Urinary Tract Infection III: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care

A healthcare provider can diagnose a urinary tract infection (UTI) through several methods:Medical History and Symptoms: The provider will take a detailed medical history and ask about symptoms such as frequent urination, burning sensation during urination, and lower abdominal pain.Urinalysis: A clean-catch urine sample is collected in a sterile container and tested for the presence of bacteria, white blood cells (leukocytes), nitrites, blood, and protein. The presence of leukocytes and...