Electromyographic biofeedback for faecal incontinence: a critical appraisal.Introduction: Patients with faecal incontinence (FI) that are unsuitable for restorative sphincter surgery have restricted therapeutic options. We critically assessed our own units experience with electromyographic (EMG) biofeedback therapy for FI in 24 patients over a three year period in a tertiary referral colorectal unit. Methods: Patients were assessed by clinical interviews and invited postal questionnaires. The validated Vaisey and Wexner incontinence scoring systems were used pre and post EMG biofeedback therapy. Quality of life assessment was measured using the Rockwood quality of life score. All patients underwent anorectal manometry and thereafter standard external anal sphincter (EAS) and puborectalis (PFE) retraining protocols were employed, (surface EMG biofeedback (myomed 932,Enraft Nonius) and Anuform intraanal probe). Follow-up was measured from the date of EMG therapy completion. Statistical analysis used the SPSS software with p<0.05 denoting significance. Results: 24 females over 36 months were treated. The mean number of sessions was 6.4 (2 - 15 range). Overall 92% of cases had improved outcome (Wexner incontinence score). 15 minute deferred faecal evacuation was improved by a factor of 6.5 (Table 1). Patients were followed up for 17.6 months (mean), ( 2 - 30 range). Conclusion: We demonstrated significant improvements in both the objective incontinence scoring systems and quality of life assessment scores. EMG biofeedback is clearly identified as a successful treatment option and should be considered an integral part of the multimodality approach to patients with faecal incontinence.
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