Anterior Sphincteroplasty for Fecal Incontinence: A Single Center Experience in the Era of Sacral Neuromodulation

PURPOSE: Anterior sphincteroplasty is the surgical treatment of choice for patients with fecal incontinence associated with an external anal sphincter defect. Recently it has been reported that patients with such a defect may also benefit from sacral neuromodulation. The success of this technique raises the question whether anterior sphincteroplasty still deserves a place in the surgical treatment of fecal incontinence. This study investigated the outcome of anterior sphincteroplasty in a large cohort of patients. METHODS: A consecutive series of 172 patients underwent anterior overlapping sphincteroplasty. A standardized questionnaire concerning current continence status, overall satisfaction, and quality of life was used to assess the outcome. RESULTS: Follow-up data were obtained from 75% of the 160 patients who were still alive at the time of the survey. After a median follow-up of 111 (range, 12-207) months, the outcome was still good to excellent in 44 patients (37%). In 28 patients (23%), the outcome was classified as moderate because these patients still experienced regular incontinence for stool. However, they were satisfied with their outcome because their incontinence episodes had been reduced by 50% or more. The outcome was poor in 40% of the patients. Predictors of worse outcome were older age (>= 50 years) at surgery, deep wound infection, and isolated external anal sphincter defects. Patients with follow-up of five or more years had the same outcome as patients with follow-up of fewer than five years. CONCLUSION: Anterior sphincteroplasty results in an acceptable to excellent long-term outcome in 60% of patients, especially in those under the age of 50 years at surgery.