Fecal Incontinence Surgical Treatments

Sacral Neuromodulation (InterStim® and Axonics®) – This is one of the most leading-edge technologies available for the treatment of fecal incontinence. Originally developed for the treatment of urinary incontinence and urinary frequency, Sacral Neuromodulation has also been proven to significantly help those suffering from bowel incontinence by gently stimulating the nerves that control the bowel to help restore more normal control. The procedure is done as an outpatient procedure in two phases. The first phase allows the patient to test out the therapy for 1-2 weeks. If significant improvement is documented, then the second phase for long-term therapy is scheduled.

The Evaluation Phase: To determine if sacral neuromodulation will be an effective therapy, a short testing period is required in which a small wire is placed under the skin near the tailbone during an outpatient procedure. This wire is connected to an external trial stimulator (worn temporarily near the lower back or hip) and sends mild electrical pulses to the nerves that help control bowel function. Patients are asked to document daily symptoms on a bowel diary to determine if enough improvement is experienced to move forward with the long-term device.

Long-Term Therapy: If a patient and the physician determine that enough improvement was successfully observed and documented during the evaluation phase, then they are a candidate for long-term therapy. During the second outpatient procedure, a small implantable device (“pacemaker”) will be placed just beneath the skin in the upper part of the buttock. The device will send mild stimulation to the pelvic nerves that assist in the communication between the brain and the muscles and nerves that control bowel function. The stimulation can be controlled and adjusted with the use of a small patient remote control.

Spincteroplasty – A majority of patients with fecal incontinence have a separation of their anal sphincter muscle due to prior child birthing or prior surgery. These patients are candidates for an anal sphincter repair. Typically, patients are in the hospital for several day after surgery and there is a recovery period postoperatively of 2-4 weeks. Good outcome with less bowel accidents are obtained in this select patient population.

Acticon™ Neosphincter – The Acticon™ Neosphincter is an advanced device used to treat severe fecal incontinence when less invasive treatments have failed. A small, fluid-filled device is completely implanted within the body. Once placed, no parts are visible. It is designed to mimic the natural function of the anal sphincter muscle, giving you control over bowel movements.

Texas Colon & Rectal Specialists is one of a limited number of colorectal
groups across the nation with surgeons who can perform this type of surgery.
Not everyone requires these advanced treatments; in fact, many people require much simpler options. The first step in being treated is to have a full evaluation by one of our experienced colorectal surgeons.

Secca® – The Secca® procedure is done on an outpatient basis under sedation. Through the use of an electrode, Secca® delivers controlled radiofrequency energy to the tissues of the anal canal causing gradual improvement in the tone of the anal canal, thus helping to improve bowel control. Patients typically can resume normal activity within a few days.