Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 6, 2026
04:42
Treating Low Back Pain in Failed Back Surgery Patients with Multicolumn-lead Spinal Cord Stimulation
Published on: June 26, 2018
Sacral nerve stimulation for faecal incontinence
J M O'Riordan1, C F Healy, D McLoughlin
1Department of Surgery, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Eccles Street, Dublin 7, Ireland.
Irish Journal of Medical Science
|April 9, 2008
Summary
Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) significantly improves fecal incontinence and quality of life in women with obstetric injuries. This treatment offers a viable alternative to colostomy for many patients.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Gastroenterology
- Neurology
Background:
- Faecal incontinence from obstetric injury is a disabling condition impacting quality of life.
- Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) is an emerging treatment for improved continence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the initial experience and outcomes of sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) in patients with faecal incontinence.
Main Methods:
- A review of 14 patients with faecal incontinence undergoing SNS from January 2006 to June 2007.
- Data collected included demographics, medical/obstetric history, manometry, ultrasound, and nerve studies.
- Pre- and post-operative Wexner Continence Score and Quality of Life Indices (Rockwood, SF-36) were assessed.
Main Results:
- Thirteen of 14 patients had incontinence related to obstetric injuries.
- Ten patients showed significant improvement with temporary SNS and proceeded to permanent implantation.
- Permanent SNS resulted in significant improvements in continence (P < 0.001) and quality of life (P < 0.01).
Conclusions:
- Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) provides significant improvement in continence and quality of life.
- SNS is a valuable treatment option for faecal incontinence, potentially avoiding the need for a permanent colostomy.
