Translation and validation of the Japanese version of the fecal incontinence quality of life scale

The aim of the study was to conduct a psychometric evaluation of the fecal incontinence quality of life scale (FIQL) in the Japanese language using rigorous methodologies. The FIQL was translated into Japanese. After being linguistically validated, the Japanese version of the FIQL was administered to a sample of 119 patients who completed the questionnaire at baseline and again after 2 weeks. The patients filled out a general questionnaire regarding health (the Short-Forum 36 Health Survey), and the severity of incontinence was assessed at baseline (Wexner scale). Internal consistency was good/excellent for all scales (Cronbach's alpha > 0.70, between 0.72 and 0.94). Stability over time was good for all scales (Intra-class correlation > 0.80, between 0.86 and 0.93). The four scales of the FIQL were significantly correlated with the scales of the generic questionnaire on health (P < 0.0001) and the Wexner scale (P < 0.0001). The mean FIQL score improved significantly after treatment in the 22 patients whose Wexner scale scores decreased > 4 points, thus indicating good sensitivity in all four scales and the total scale. The linguistic and psychometric evaluation demonstrated the validity of the Japanese version of the FIQL.