Control of fecal incontinence: continued success with the Malone procedure.

BACKGROUND

Our center has previously reported the use of the Malone antegrade continence enema procedure in children. The procedure involves bringing the appendix to the surface of the abdominal wall to provide a nonrefluxing catheterizable channel that enables antegrade colonic lavage for the control of fecal incontinence.

METHODS

This report critically evaluates 23 patients treated for fecal incontinence with up to 6 years of follow-up. After operation, specific scoring criteria were used for assessment. Success in surgical technique, control of fecal soiling, and improvement in quality of life were evaluated.

RESULTS

More than 85% of patients achieved maximal or near-maximal scores in all three categories. Postoperative complications remain a relevant concern when this procedure is undertaken, but we have found that significant postoperative complications are few and can be minimized by meticulous follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the Malone antegrade continence enema procedure has been shown to be safe and highly effective. There is the potential for wider application in older age groups where sphincter and pelvic floor muscles have been compromised as a result of trauma or cancer surgery.