Ileal neoappendicostomy for antegrade colonic enema (ACE) in the treatment of fecal incontinence and chronic constipation: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND

Antegrade colonic enema (ACE) via an appendicostomy is a recognised method of treatment for medically intractable fecal incontinence and/or constipation. In case of a missing appendix, ileal neoappendicostomy (INA) is considered a suitable alternative. The aim of this study was to review the postoperative complications, functional outcome, stoma-related complications and quality of life of patients treated with this method.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed in Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed (NCBI) and Cochrane Library from inception to September 2020 using the search terms "antegrade enema" OR "continence enema". Studies on children and adults with fecal incontinence, constipation or a combination of both, who underwent ileal neoappendicostomy for ACE due to the failure of medical treatment and/or anal irrigation were included in the studies, which reported one or more of the following primary outcomes: postoperative complications, functional results, and stoma-related complications.

RESULTS

A total of 780 studies were identified, 8 of which, comprising 6 studies in adults and 2 in children, were eligible for review. Overall, 139 patients were included. All studies were retrospective and the methods for reporting outcomes were highly heterogeneous. Improvements in incontinence and constipation were reported in all studies, together with an improved quality of life when reported (5 studies). Stomal stenosis and leakage rates were 0-29% and 14-60%, respectively. Postoperative complications were relatively common and included potentially life-threatening complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Taking into consideration that studies of INA were few and of poorly quality; ACE via an INA had a positive impact on bowel function and quality of life. Stoma-related complications and postoperative complications remain a concern.