Implantation of microballoons in the management of fecal incontinence

PURPOSE: The implantation of expandable microballoons has proved successful for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence. This led us to test its effectiveness in the treatment of severe fecal incontinence. METHODS: Six p atients (four male), of average age of 43 (range, 29-60) years, with severe fecal incontinence, underwent implantation of expandable microballoons in the submucosa of the anal canal. The implantation was performed under intra venous sedation as an outpatient procedure. Anal manometry, endosonography, and incontinence assessment with a scoring system were performed before an d after the implantation. RESULTS: With a mean follow-up of 8.6 (range, 7-1 2) months, the incontinence scores improved in all patients from an average of 16.16 (standard deviation: +/- 1.6) before the implantation to an avera ge of 5 (standard deviation: +/- 1.26) after the procedure, The anal pressu re at rest was not improved in any patient (mean: 50.16 before treatment to a mean of 53 after treatment). No significant adverse events were associat ed with the procedure, and no serious postimplantation complications were n oted. DISCUSSION: Anal implantation of expandable microballoons seems to be a simple, safe, and effective method that restores the fecal continence wi thout hindering normal defecation.