Penile and clitoral stimulation for faecal incontinence: external application of a bipolar electrode for patients with faecal incontinence

• Published in: Colorectal disease 2004-01, Vol.6 (1), p.54-57
• Main Authors: Frizelle, F. A., Gearry, R. B., Johnston, M., Barclay, M. L., Dobbs, B. R., Wise, C., Troughton, W. D.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Anal Canal - physiology; anorectal physiology; biofeedback; Clitoris - innervation; Electric Stimulation Therapy - instrumentation; Electric Stimulation Therapy - methods; Electrodes; Faecal incontinence; Fecal Incontinence - diagnosis; Fecal Incontinence - physiopathology; Fecal Incontinence - therapy; Female; Humans; Male; Manometry; Middle Aged; Penis - innervation; Retrospective Studies; Treatment Outcome
• ISSN: 1462-8910; 1463-1318
• DOI: 10.1111/j.1463-1318.2004.00543.x

Objective  The aim of this study was to assess the effect of a novel pudendal nerve stimulator on clinical and anorectal manometric parameters in patients with faecal incontinence. Method  Retrospective cohort analysis of consecutive patients presenting with faecal incontinence who had failed initial conservative treatment and were not suitable for surgical intervention in a university hospital incontinence clinic. Biofeedback using a pudendal nerve stimulator comprising a bipolar electrode applied to the base of the clitoris or penis. Electrical pulse voltage was self‐titrated and defined periods of treatment were prescribed. Anorectal manometry and Cleveland incontinence scores were assessed. Results  There was a significant reduction in incontinence symptom score after pudendal nerve stimulator treatment in the 42 patients treated and who had a complete set of data (median age 57 years (range 37–81); 39 female, 3 male). This was accompanied by significant improvements (P