Faecal Incontinence

Faecal incontinence can be classified into complete and incomplete incontinence.

• Complete Incontinence: In this condition, there is a loss of control over solid stool, liquid stool, and gas, leading to leakage.
• Incomplete Incontinence: This type allows for some degree of control. It may involve the inability to control liquid stool or gas, and the incidents might occur only when the restroom is not readily available or during periods of muscle tension (such as coughing, exertion, or exercise).

As age advances, the pelvic floor and anal sphincter muscles tend to weaken. The likelihood of women experiencing pudendal neuropathy also increases with age, making them more susceptible to faecal incontinence. Additionally, hormonal changes associated with post-menopause, multiple vaginal deliveries, or prolonged labour may contribute to the risk of pelvic floor and anal sphincter weakness, leading to faecal incontinence.

Surgeons will diagnose the patient's incontinence condition through the following methods:

• Imaging studies: including anal ultrasound, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to examine the condition of the anal sphincter for any damage.
• Colonoscopy (to check for issues such as colon obstruction, rectal prolapse, etc.)
• Anorectal manometry (measuring pressure during relaxation and straining)
• Pudendal Nerve Terminal Motor Latency Testing (to exclude an pudendal neuropathy)