[Idiopathic anal incontinence. Surgical treatment]

Three patients operated upon for idiopathic anal incontinence are reported. This idiopathic incontinence is due to degeneration of the nerves supplying the pelvic floor muscles and results in partial or total disappearance of the double right angle which normally exists between the anal canal and the rectum. This anorectal angulation is essential in the maintenance of anal continence. The aim of the operation is the reconstruction of a normal anatomy with the restoration of this anorectal angulation. The suture of the levators ani and particularly of the puborectalis muscle proposed by Parks is the operation of choice. The results of the operation 1-3 years later are excellent in two cases and satisfactory in one case.