Da Silva G¹, Sirany A¹. Version 2. F1000Res. 2019 Jul 31 [revised 2019 Aug 23];8. pii: F1000 Faculty Rev-1291. doi: 10.12688/f1000research.15270.2. eCollection 2019.

Author information

1 Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, FL, 33331, USA.

Abstract

Fecal incontinence (FI) is the uncontrolled passage of feces or gas in an individual who previously had control. The prevalence of the problem varies but can be as high as 50% of institutionalized individuals. The severity varies among individuals, but the negative impact on self-esteem and quality of life can have devastating effects. The goals of treatment are to decrease the frequency and severity of episodes as well as to improve quality of life. At present, several therapies, ranging from medical management to more invasive surgical interventions, are offered for the management of FI. In this article, we review the most recent advances in the management of FI.