[Objective evaluation of anorectal function in fecal incontinence]

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Colorectal Surgery
• Physiology

Background:

• Fecal incontinence presents a significant challenge in diagnosis and treatment.
• Accurate etiological diagnosis is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline a comprehensive approach for evaluating anorectal function in patients with fecal incontinence.
• To emphasize the role of objective investigations in confirming or refuting diagnoses.

Main Methods:

• History taking, clinical examination, anuscopy, and rectoscopy.
• Objective investigations including manometry, myography, and radiology.
• Evaluation of functional and anatomical components of the anorectal continence apparatus.

Main Results:

• Anatomical defects require functional assessment of continence components.
• Functional causes include megarectum, psychogenic encopresis, neurological lesions, and pudendal neuropathy.
• Objective investigations are key to confirming diagnoses and evaluating treatment outcomes.

Conclusions:

• A complete functional evaluation of the anorectum is essential for patients with unsatisfactory treatment outcomes.
• Objective investigations provide a basis for objectifying treatment results.
• Differentiating between anatomical and functional causes guides therapeutic strategies.