Sacral nerve stimulation for faecal incontinence: long-term outcome

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology and Urology
• Neurology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Faecal incontinence (FI) significantly impacts quality of life.
• Short- and mid-term efficacy of Sacral Nerve Stimulation (SNS) for FI is established.
• Long-term outcomes of permanent SNS for FI require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the long-term efficacy and safety of Sacral Nerve Stimulation (SNS) in patients with faecal incontinence.
• To evaluate the durability of clinical outcomes and quality of life improvements over an extended follow-up period.

Main Methods:

• Prospective analysis of 9 patients with permanent SNS implants (minimum 7-year follow-up).
• Functional outcomes assessed via standardized questionnaires, including incontinent episode frequency and Wexner Score.
• Quality of life (FIQL scale), stimulation parameters, battery longevity, and complications were monitored.

Main Results:

• Persistent efficacy observed over a mean follow-up of 9.8 years (range 7-14).
• Significant reductions in weekly incontinent bowel movements (40% to 0%) and Wexner Scores (17 to 10).
• Quality of life improved across all domains; 8/9 patients required pulse generator exchange due to battery fatigue.

Conclusions:

• Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) provides effective and safe long-term management for faecal incontinence.
• Clinical outcomes remain stable over extended periods, demonstrating the durability of SNS therapy.