What Is Fecal Incontinence Surgery?
Fecal incontinence surgery is a treatment option for individuals who cannot control their bowel movements, leading to involuntary leakage of stool. Surgical intervention is considered when conservative treatments such as dietary changes, medications, and pelvic floor exercises are ineffective. There are several surgical options available, depending on the underlying cause and severity of the incontinence. Sphincteroplasty, a common procedure, involves repairing a damaged or weakened anal sphincter muscle to restore its function.
Other surgical options include sacral nerve stimulation (SNS), which involves implanting a small device that sends electrical impulses to the sacral nerves to improve bowel control, and the implantation of an artificial bowel sphincter, which mimics the natural sphincter function. In more severe cases, a colostomy may be necessary, where an opening (stoma) is created on the abdominal wall to divert stool into a colostomy bag. Post-operative care includes monitoring for complications, managing pain, and following a bowel management plan to ensure the best possible outcome.
