Chronic posterior tibial nerve transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) to treat fecal incontinence (FI).

Aim: Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a possible alternative to sacral nerve stimulation because the neurophysiologic targets might be similar but the former method is non-invasive and cheaper. The aim of the study was to assess both symptom and quality of life (QoL) improvements in patients suffering from severe FI.

Methods: Thirty two patients (M/F, 30/2; age, 61 +/- 13 years) were enrolled in a pilot trial because they suffered from a severe and stable FI (Cleveland Score14.