Long-term results of anterior sphincteroplasty.

Purpose: This study was designed to evaluate the outcome of anterior sphincteroplasty in a large series with ten-year follow-up.

Methods: The long-term results in 191 consecutive patients who were a median of ten years from sphincteroplasty were assessed. A questionnaire was administered to assess current bowel function, degree of incontinence, and quality of life as measured by the Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life Scale.

Fecal incontinence.

The treatment of fecal incontinence is particularly gratifying because the loss of fecal control has a devastating effect on a patients lifestyle. One must consider the myriad factors that influence bowel control to properly diagnose and treat each patient. Physiology testing, particularly the use of ultrasound, is essential when treatment extends beyond dietary and medical management.