An investigation into the effect of biofeedback on urinary and fecal incontinence in patients with anal sphincter dysfunction

Fecal incontinence refers to the inability to control bowel movements, causing feces to leak unexpectedly from the rectum. People suffering from this disorder are emotionally distressed. This problem causes social degradation, anxiety, fear, and social isolation. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of biofeedback (BFB) on fecal incontinence in patients with anal sphincter abnormalities in 2017.

This quasi-experimental study was performed on 30 patients with fecal incontinence, referring to the gastroenterology clinic of Taleghani and Mehrad hospitals. Patients were first evaluated by Wexner criteria and then, with the aid of a manometer, information was obtained on the amount of sphincter muscle tone, squeeze pressure, and rectal sensation. Manometric results and Waxner's questionnaire were compared before and after BFB. Data were analyzed using SPSS (version 20).

In this study, 18 women and 12 men were studied. There was no significant relationship between fluid intake, fiber, exercise, sex, and incontinence (P < 0.05). According to Wuxner's components, the sphincter muscle tone increased significantly after BFB in patients. The total score of the squeeze pressure increased significantly after the BFB application (P < 0.05). The mean total score of rectal sensation (individual awareness of rectal contents) decreased after the BFB application.

In addition to the fact that it can improve incontinence in patients with anal sphincter abnormalities, BFB is also helpful for patients whose sphincter and rectum are not seriously affected and only show incontinence symptoms.