| Abstract: |
The aim of this essay is to discuss the different dimensions of FI andto declare the different tools of clear diagnosis and the different optionsof management of the condition and its complications.Fecal incontinence (FI) is the involuntary passage of bowel contentsthrough the anus or through an external stoma. It ranges from theunintentional elimination of flatus to the seepage of liquid fecal matter orsometimes the complete evacuation of bowel contents. It occurs in about1% to 7.4% in general populations, and up to 25% in elderly populations.Not surprisingly, this condition causes considerable embarrassment thatin turn causes loss of self-esteem, social isolation and diminished qualityof life. FI not only causes significant morbidity in the community but italso consumes substantial health care resources (Rao, 2004).The anus is the outlet of the gastrointestinal tract and evacuation ofbowel contents depends on action by the muscles of both the involuntaryinternal anal sphincter (IAS), the voluntary external anal sphincter (EAS)and the pelvic floor muscles (Goligher, et al., 1955). Normally theprocess of defecation is an integrated somatovisceral reflex conductedthrough a series of highly coordinated activities between C.N.S.,anorectum, pelvic floor muscles and nerves, and anterior abdominal wall.Various congenital, anatomical, neurological and functional abnormalitiescan affect the integrity of this reflex and represented by FI (Jeyarajah, etal., 2007).
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