Success and Complication Rates After Sacral Neuromodulation for Fecal Incontinence and Constipation: A Single-center...

Area of Science:

• Medical Science
• Neurosurgery
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) is a therapeutic option for patients with fecal incontinence (FI) and/or constipation.
• Evaluating the long-term efficacy and sustainability of SNM is crucial for clinical decision-making.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the long-term sustainability of sacral neuromodulation (SNM) outcomes in patients treated for fecal incontinence (FI) and/or constipation.
• To determine success rates, complication rates, and reintervention rates associated with SNM therapy.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of a prospective database of patients who underwent SNM between 2006 and 2015.
• Assessment of success rates, complications, and reinterventions up to 10 years post-implantation.
• Evaluation of patient outcomes including changes in incontinence episodes and need for battery replacement or reintervention.

Main Results:

• Of 101 patients implanted, 79 (78.2%) received permanent SNM, with 72.2% still benefiting at a mean follow-up of 4.4 years.
• The 5-year success rate for FI was 88.2%, significantly higher than for isolated constipation (31.2%).
• Reinterventions were required in 30.4% of patients, but did not negatively impact long-term success rates; median battery life was 6.2 years.

Conclusions:

• Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) demonstrates sustained effectiveness as a treatment for fecal incontinence (FI).
• The long-term efficacy of SNM for constipation is limited, and it is not recommended as a primary therapy.
• While reinterventions are sometimes necessary, they do not compromise the overall success of SNM therapy.