MICROCHIP IMPLANTS ON THE ANTERIOR SACRAL ROOTS IN PATIENTS WITH SPINAL TRAUMA - DOES IT IMPROVE BOWEL FUNCTION

PURPOSE: This study evaluated the effect of anterior sacral roots stim ulator implants on bowel function of patients with spinal cord trauma. METHOD: Eight patients with spinal cord injury and constipation had a nterior sacral roots stimulator implants inserted for concomitant blad der dysfunction. Questionnaires on bowel function and anorectal manome try tests were given before and after insertion of the implants. RESUL TS: Six patients achieved improvement in bowel function. Four of these patients could defecate spontaneously following stimulation. Two pati ents had no improvement in bowel function. Anorectal manometry studies showed a negative rectoanal pressure difference at the time of stimul ation. All patients were unable to defecate during stimulation. Positi ve rectoanal pressure difference was recorded in the six patients who had improved bowel function. This may be attributable to the slower re laxation of the smooth rectal muscle compared with the easily fatigabl e striated external anal sphincter. CONCLUSION: Anterior sacral roots stimulator implants can improve bowel function in patients with spinal cord trauma.