Artificial bowel sphincter: long-term experience at a single institution.

PURPOSE

This study was undertaken to evaluate a single-institution experience with the Acticon artificial bowel sphincter for the treatment of intractable fecal incontinence.

METHODS

At the University of Minnesota, 45 consecutive patients underwent artificial bowel sphincter placement (Group I, 1989-1992, n = 10; Group II, 1997-2001, n = 35). Group I was reviewed retrospectively and Group II prospectively.

RESULTS

The outcome for Group I patients was initially reported in 1995 (mean age, 32; range, 15-52 years; 7 males). Of these 10 patients, 4 required explantation (2 required stomas), and 6 have a functional artificial bowel sphincter; 2 patients had devices successfully replaced for fluid leaks (at 6 and 10 years). In Group II, artificial bowel sphincter placement was attempted in 37 patients and was successful in 35 (mean age, 47; range, 18-72 years; 11 males). A total of 14 patients required explantation, 12 (34 percent) for infection and 2 (6 percent) for pain. In total, 13 patients have required 21 revisions, including 7 complete device replacements. The infection rate for revisions was 19 percent; four patients required explantation after revisions. Of 18 patients whose artificial bowel sphincter failed, 9 required a stoma. In all, 17 (49 percent) patients have a functional artificial bowel sphincter. In Group II fecal incontinence severity scores decreased from a mean of 103 preimplant to 59 at one year and to 23 at two or more years (P < 0.001) in patients who retained their devices. Quality of life scores improved in all patients at six months and at one year (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Artificial bowel sphincter therapy leads to long-term improved continence and quality of life in patients whose implantation is successful. Success rates have not improved in the two patient groups, with infection remaining a major challenge. However, once successfully established, artificial bowel sphincter function remains stable for many years.