Long-term results following sacral nerve stimulation for chronic constipation

AimThe long-term outcome of sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) for chronic functional constipation was assessed. MethodPatients who received a definitive SNS implant for chronic functional constipation only (according to the Rome III criteria) and were followed up for at least 3years were included in this study. Slow transit constipation (STC) was distinguished from obstructed defaecation (OD) and mixed/undetermined constipation (MU). Constipation features, Cleveland Clinic Constipation score (CCCS) and SF-36 questionnaire data were collected; physiological tests were performed. ResultsForty-two out of 61 patients suitable for SNS received a definitive implant (14 for STC, 15 for OD, 13 for MU). Following SNS device implantation (mean follow-up 5115months), the baseline CCCS (17 +/- 6) dropped to 9 +/- 6 (P<0.001) and 47% of patients had an improvement in the CCCS of more than 50%. Such improvement was more significant in patients with OD. Anal pressures did not change, while threshold and urgency rectal sensation significantly decreased, in particular in patients with OD. All aspects of patients' health status (SF-36) improved significantly following SNS; this was more marked in patients with OD. ConclusionData from this study suggest that the clinical efficacy of SNS can be prolonged in constipated patients, but in both the preliminary diagnostic assessment and pathophysiological interpretation every effort should be made to select patients for SNS. Although SNS showed efficacy in a low percentage of patients with STC, patients with OD were more responsive.