[Recent advances in fecal incontinence treatment].

Abstract

RECENT ADVANCES IN FECAL INCONTINENCE TREATMENT. Anal incontinence is a chronic condition that affects nearly 10% of the general population. When anal leakage concerns the stool and is frequent, the impact on the quality of life is very important. Recent advances in non-invasive medical treatments and in operative approaches make it possible to provide for most patients an anorectal comfort compatible with a social life. The three main challenges for the future lie in the organization of screening for this condition which is still taboo and for which patients do not easily confide, in a better selection of patients to offer the most suitable treatments, and therefore a better understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms; and finally in the establishment of algorithms which prioritize treatments according to their side effects and their effectiveness.