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For fecal and urinary incontinence, new technology has recently been implemented in our healthcare system. And as state-of-the-art surgeons at Center for Colorectal Disease of Arizona we are proudly offering the minimally invasive technology to our patients in need.
In general it is difficult to talk about it with family, friends and even doctors. But according to the National Institute of Health, more than 21 million adults in the US are affected by fecal incontinence (FI).
This condition is very common in conditions that can affect the nerves, such as diabetes, stroke or advanced age. As well as from injury from pregnancy or childbirth.
Bowel control problems are extremely common, but they are not normal. If you suffer from bowel control issues we can help you.
Do the following sound familiar?
Here are some common symptoms of Fecal Incontinence.
- Frequent bowel accidents
- Monitoring what and how much you eat
- Using pads or protective garments
- Planning activities around the bathroom
- Inability to feel when you need to go
- Inability to resist the urge to go
Fecal Incontinence (FI) is a treatable condition. It’s not a normal part of aging. And you shouldn’t have to deal with it on your own.
What is the Process?
Step 1 diagnosis
What is happening to me
If you’re experiencing symptoms of bowel control problems, it’s time to meet with one of our bowel incontinence specialists. Your doctor will complete an initial evaluation with medical history, physical exam, anorectal manometry.
Step 2 lifestyle changes
What should I try first
Conservative treatments can help some people, but may not work very well (or at all) for others. All of these are relatively simple behavioral changes that you may already be doing.
- Dietary modification: Changes may include adjusting fiber intake or eliminating troublesome foods.
- Bowel retraining: Also called biofeedback, this aims to improve bowel sensation, coordination, and strength.
- Medication: Anti-diarrheal medication may provide some relief.
Step 3 advanced therapies
What should I try first
If conservative treatments don’t deliver the results you want, you have more options, we will have you come in to reevaluate and run some diagnostic tests.
First will be a simple nerve test in our office (1 week trial)
If there is a less than 50% improvement then we can do a permanent neuromodulator implant (10-15 years). Using the Medtronic bowel control therapy interstim system, this therapy targets nerves that control your bowel so that it can function normally again.
If there is greater than 50% improvement then we can do surgical repair (sphincteroplasty) Several other surgical options are available.
First will be a simple nerve test in our office (1 week trial)
If there is a less than 50% improvement then we can do a permanent neuromodulator implant (10-15 years). Using the Medtronic bowel control therapy interstim system, this therapy targets nerves that control your bowel so that it can function normally again.
If there is greater than 50% improvement then we can do surgical repair (sphincteroplasty) Several other surgical options are available.
- Anal sphincter repair
- Artificial sphincter
- Colostomy
- Antegrade colonic enema (ACE)
WHY IS THE MEDTRONIC THERAPY DIFFERENT?
COMMUNICATION IS CRITICAL
Evidence suggests that breakdowns in the bowel-brain communication pathway are a root cause of chronic fecal incontinence (FI).1 While more conservative therapies focus on the bowel and related muscles, Medtronic bowel control therapy targets the nerves that control the bowel muscles, which is thought to help restore normal bowel function.*
