Modified Thiersch procedure with silastic mesh implant: a simple solution for fecal incontinence and severe prolapse

Most of the surgical procedures proposed for the treatment of fecal incontinence associated with prolapse are associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. We used a modified Thiersch procedure with a Silastic mesh implant (Dow-Corning 501-3) on a series of 12 patients over a period of 2 1/2 years. Nine patients obtained excellent control of the prolapse and incontinence. Only one patient was dissatisfied with her operation. The excellent results reported by other authors using a Silastic mesh implant have been reproduced in this small series of patients. This relatively safe and simple operation may still be the procedure of choice for fecal incontinence and rectal prolapse.