Biofeedback for anorectal disorders

Abstract

Fecal incontinence and constipation are common disorders: Fecal incontinence is reported to occur often in 2.2% [1] to 6.9% [2] of adults in the United States, with frequent, large volume fecal incontinence occurring in an estimated 0.7% of the population [2]. Constipation occurs in an estimated 4% of US adults [3], with pelvic floor dyssynergia type constipation making up an estimated 25-50% of this group [4,5]. Neither disorder is life-threatening, al though both have an adverse effect on quality of life and are associated with significant morbidity and costs (e.g. cost of care and work absenteeism). Functional rectal pain is reported by an estimated 11.3% of adults, including 7.9% who have proctalgia fugax (fleeting sharp pain) and 6.6% who have levator ani syndrome (chronic or recurring episodes of dull, aching pain) [2]. © 2006 Springer-Verlag London Limited.