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Fecal Or Bowel Incontinence
Fecal incontinence or Leakage of stool is a condition in which there is loss of control and leading to leakage of stool or gas at undesired time. This condition is commonly seen in the older population especially in the females who have multiple previous pregnancies. Furthermore, there are many reasons leading to this condition. However, common causes include laxity of the pelvic or sphincter muscles with the aging or previous pregnancies. Besides these, other causes of leakage of stool include change in the consistency of the stool including diarrhea/loose bowel movements, prior surgeries in the anal or rectal area, pelvic radiation, medications and dietary factors.
Diagnosis And Treatment
The diagnosis of fecal or bowel incontinence is usually based on the clinical history, symptoms and physical examination of the anorectal area. The other modalities for the diagnosis include use of anal manometry, colonoscopy, defecography testing.
Another key point, medical management of fecal incotinence is with the diet and lifestyle modifications as a first modality of treatment. Other options include use of medications, biofeedback treatment or physical therapy and muscle exercises. Additionally, surgical treatment involves the repair of the muscles if damaged or placement of a neurostimulator. Finally, Sacral nerve neurostimulator is a new technology which is less invasive and helps and better control of bowel movements. Sacral nerve stimulator or interstim device is a new technology. Your surgeon will place a small device under the skin and it stimulates the nerves going to the sphincter muscles. Small leads are placed through the spinal foramen connecting to this device. Artificial anal sphincter is also a technique which has a very limited success rate in the management of bowel incontinence. Please discuss with your Colorectal surgeon regarding this modality of treatment.
What is a colon and Rectal Surgeon? Is Dr Singh a Board-certified Colorectal surgeon? and where does he perform his procedures.
Colon and rectal surgeons are experts in the surgical and non-surgical treatment of diseases of the colon, rectum, and anus. They have completed advanced surgical training in the treatment of these diseases, as well as full general surgical training. They are well versed in the treatment of both benign and malignant diseases of the colon, rectum, and anus and are able to perform routine screening examinations and surgically treat conditions as and if needed. Dr Singh is a double board certified in Colon and Rectal Surgery and General surgery. His practice is located in Phoenix, Glendale and Scottsdale, AZ.
For more information on fecal incontinence and management please click here :
Fecal Incontinence Expanded | ASCRS (fascrs.org)
Home – Colon & Rectal Care Center of Phoenix (colorectaldoc.com)
