Long-term outcome of postanal repair in the treatment of faecal incontinence

Background:  Idiopathic faecal incontinence is a common debilitating problem; the results of surgical treatment are variable with only a small proportion of patients achieving full continence.

Objectives:  The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcome of postanal repair in idiopathic faecal incontinence.

Patients and methods:  Patients who had postanal repair in Auckland between 1994 and 2001 were identified and mailed faecal incontinence severity index (FISI) and faecal incontinence quality of life (FIQOL) questionnaires. Preoperative and postoperative incontinence scores were compared and postoperative quality of life scores were calculated.

Results:  Forty-seven of the 66 patients who had undergone postanal repair from 1994 to 2001 completed the FIQOL questionnaire. FISI scores were complete on 44 patients. Comparison of preoperative and postoperative FISI scores revealed an improvement with mean scores of 34 and 23, respectively (P = 0.0001). Thirty (68%) patients had improved, including four who were fully continent. Fourteen patients were the same or worse.

Conclusions:  Postanal repair provides lasting benefit for the majority of patients with faecal incontinence.