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Fecal incontinence.

Christine D Hannaway1, Tracy L Hull

  • 1Department of Colorectal Surgery, Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.

Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America
|May 20, 2008
PubMed
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Fecal incontinence (FI) significantly impacts patients and communities, often stemming from obstetric injuries in women. While surgical repair offers the best option for sphincter defects, long-term outcomes remain disappointing, driving ongoing research for better treatments.

Area of Science:

  • Gynecology
  • Colorectal Surgery
  • Pelvic Floor Medicine

Background:

  • Fecal incontinence (FI) presents considerable social and economic burdens.
  • Obstetric injury is a frequent cause of FI in women.
  • Understanding pelvic floor anatomy and continence mechanisms is crucial for managing FI.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current understanding of fecal incontinence.
  • To highlight the role of pelvic floor anatomy in continence.
  • To discuss diagnostic and treatment strategies for FI.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on pelvic floor anatomy, continence mechanisms, and FI treatments.
  • Analysis of current surgical interventions for sphincter defects.
  • Discussion of diagnostic approaches including history and physical examination.

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Main Results:

  • Surgical repair is the primary treatment for sphincter defects in FI.
  • Current surgical repair methods show disappointing long-term prognoses.
  • Knowledge of anatomy and clinical assessment guides appropriate study and treatment selection.

Conclusions:

  • Effective management of fecal incontinence requires a thorough understanding of pelvic floor anatomy and continence.
  • While surgery is indicated for sphincter defects, improved long-term outcomes are needed.
  • Continued research is essential to find a cure and restore patients' quality of life.