Sacral neuromodulation in the treatment of severe anal incontinence. Forty consecutive cases treated in one institution.

Introduction: Sacral neuromodulation is a recognized therapeutic option in severe anal incontinence from neurogenic origins, when medical treatment has failed.

Methods: We report the results of this procedure applied in 40 consecutive patients operated on by a single surgeon from August 2001 to June 2004. Mean duration of incontinence was 5 years.

Technical and functional results after laparoscopic rectopexy to the promontory for complete rectal prolapse. Prospective study in 54 consecutive patients.

Introduction: Laparoscopic rectopexy for complete rectal prolapse offers short-term advantages compared with operations performed by laparotomy. The aim of this prospective study was to report technical and functional outcome after laparoscopic rectopexy to the promontory in consecutive patients operated on by a single surgeon.

Patients And Methods: From May 1996 to July 2004, 54 consecutive patients (47 women), median age 53 years (range: 16-84 years), underwent laparoscopic rectopexy to the promontory for complete rectal prolapse.

Oesophageal motor and sensitivity abnormalities in non-obstructive dysphagia.

Objectives: To evaluate oesophageal sensitivity to balloon distension in patients with non-obstructive dysphagia (NOD), and to determine its relationship with the motility pattern in response to food ingestion.

Patients And Methods: Twenty-one healthy volunteers and 19 consecutive patients complaining of NOD with normal standard manometry were included. An oesophageal sensitivity test was carried out before the manometry study with liquid and solid swallows.