Clinical, Sonographic and Manometric Characteristics and Impact on Quality of Life of Fecal Incontinence in 92 Men Referred for Endoanal Ultrasonography

Unlabelled: Anal incontinence (AI) is a frequent symptom with considerable impact on quality of life. The aim of this study was to describe the clinical, sonographic and manometric characteristics of a male population with AI.

Materials And Methods: Endoanal ultrasonography (EAU) was performed in 92 men referred for exploration of AI. Anal incontinence severity was evaluated by the Jorge and Wexner score (JW). The gastrointestinal quality-of-life index (GIQLI) was determined in 57% of patients. Anorectal manometry was performed in 62.6% of patients.

Results: The average JW score was 11+/-1. Anal incontinence had considerable impact on quality of life: average GIQLI=81+/-4. Seventeen patients presented an anal sphincter defect on EAU, 16 of whom had a history of coloproctological surgery. Prior surgery was significantly more common among patients who had a defect on ultrasonography; manometry showed significantly lower resting anal pressure.

Conclusion: Our study confirms the severity of AI in a male population and its impact on quality of life. It also highlights the high prevalence of anal sphincter defects in patients with a history of anal surgery.