Faecal incontinence is not untreatable
Although it can be a long road, solutions are available, and each patient can benefit from a therapy adapted to their symptoms. When faecal incontinence is the result of diarrhea, constipation, or an underlying pathology, the main cause must be treated first.
If underlying causes have been ruled out, the following treatments are proposed as first-line therapy1
Behavioral adjustments (toilet routine / bowel training) and dietary adjustments (for example, adjusting fiber or caffeine intake)
Lifestyle adjustments: like smoking cessation and weights loss
Skin barrier creams: to prevent or avoid incontinence-associated dermatitis (inflammation of the skin)
Absorbent products can be considered to contain the impact of symptoms and provide additional security
Pelvic floor muscle exercises w/without biofeedback: this consists of various exercises designed to improve sphincter tone and bowel control
Anti-diarrheal medication: may help bowel control by slowing stool transit and increasing water absorption in the intestines
If these treatments fail or are poorly tolerated, other solutions may be proposed as a second-line treatment1
Non-surgical treatments
Trans-anal irrigation
This treatment is designed to instill water into the colon through a rectal catheter to promote evacuation of the contents of the lower colon.
Anal inserts
Inserted just like a suppository, these devices help prevent uncontrolled loss of stool
Surgical treatments
Sacral neuromodulation
This treatment uses a low-intesity electrical current to stimulate the sacral nerves, which play an important role in controlling the urinary and faecal systems. The treatment can be tested by the patient and is reversible.
Sphincteroplasty
This permanent procedure is used to repair damaged or weakened anal sphincter muscles.
Stoma
This permanent procedure involves an opening in the abdoment through which waste can be diverted to an external collectiing device.
Discover one of the advanced therapies
Information contained herein is not medical advice and should not be used as an alternative to speaking with your doctor. Discuss indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions, adverse events and any further information with your health care professional.
References
1
Assmann SL et al. Guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of Faecal Incontinence - A UEG/ESCP/ESNM/ESPCG collaboration. United European Gastroenterol. J 2022 Apr; 10(3):251-286 Erratum in: United European Gastroenterol. J 2022 Jul; 10(6):606-607