The effect of low-level laser therapy on external anal sphincter repair and treatment of fecal incontinence: A double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial

Abstract

Background: Fecal incontinence (FI) results from damage to the external anal sphincter (EAS), significantly affecting quality of life. This clinical trial evaluated the impact of low-level laser (LLL) therapy on EAS repair and the treatment of FI. Methods: Thirty FI patients with EAS deficiency were divided into two groups (n = 15): a control group receiving sphincteroplasty alone and a laser group undergoing sphincteroplasty plus laser therapy. Following surgery, the laser group received daily laser therapy for 2 weeks. Outcomes were assessed using Wexner scores, electromyography (EMG), and endorectal sonography. Results: The laser group exhibited a significant increase in muscle bulk (P = 0.008) and a lower Wexner index (P < 0.0001) compared to the control group. EMG confirmed muscle contractility in the laser group. Conclusions: Two weeks of LLL therapy effectively increased muscle at the EAS injury site, leading to significant, lasting improvements in FI.