Therapies for Fecal Incontinence: What's Available?
Therapies for Fecal Incontinence: What's Available?
Exploring Options
Fecal incontinence doesn't have to control your life. Discover the therapies that can help you regain control.
Contents
- Biofeedback Therapy
- Sacral Nerve Stimulation
- Anal Bulking Agents
Biofeedback Therapy
Biofeedback is a promising therapy for those with fecal incontinence due to weak external anal sphincters or nerve injuries. It involves guided exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, improving muscle tone and coordination. While not suitable for everyone, it offers significant benefits for many patients.
Sacral Nerve Stimulation
Sacral nerve stimulation is an advanced therapy for patients who do not respond to initial treatments. It involves placing a temporary electrode in the sacral nerves, providing electrical stimulation to improve muscle control. This therapy has shown effectiveness in improving continence and quality of life.
Anal Bulking Agents
Injectable anal bulking agents are used to improve continence by enhancing anal pressures. While studies show varying results, they can be effective in certain cases, particularly for passive incontinence. The treatment involves injecting materials like dextranomer-hyaluronic acid to support the anal canal structure.
FAQs
What is biofeedback therapy?
It's a guided exercise to improve pelvic floor muscle control.
How does sacral nerve stimulation work?
It uses electrical impulses to enhance muscle control and continence.
What are anal bulking agents?
Injectable materials that support anal structure to improve continence.
Who can benefit from biofeedback?
Patients with weak external anal sphincters or nerve injuries.
Wrapping Up
Exploring therapy options with a healthcare provider can lead to significant improvements.
Additional References
- Bharucha AE, Rao SSC, Shin AS. Surgical Interventions and the Use of Device-Aided Therapy for the Treatment of Fecal Incontinence and Defecatory Disorders. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2017; 15:1844.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.