Aetiology
Broadly the causes of faecal incontinence can be divided into seven aetiological subgroups, with patients falling into one or more groups.
- Structural anorectal abnormalities (e.g., sphincter trauma, rectal prolapse).
- Neurological conditions.
- Alterations in stool consistency.
- Overflow
- Cognitive/behavioural dysfunction (e.g., dementia, learning difficulties).
- General debility
- Idiopathic.
Note
- obstetric sphincter damage is the most common cause of incontinence in young women, and sphincter damage has been estimated to occur in 11% of women who give birth vaginally (2)
Reference
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Faecal incontinence in adults: management. Jun 2007 [internet publication].
- Dudding TC, Vaizey CJ, Kamm MA. Obstetric anal sphincter injury: incidence, risk factors, and management. Ann Surg. 2008 Feb;247(2):224-37
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