To Evaluate and Explain the Consequences of Abnormal Anal Sphincter Morphology Using the 3-Dimensional Endosonography

Abstract

The Objective of the Study. To evaluate and explain the consequences of different morphological abnormalities of anal sphincters including the sphincter damage and its extent using the 3-dimensional endosonography. Material and Methods. 56 patients suffering from fecal incontinence all were subjected to analysis of patient symptoms, scoring the severity of symptoms, digital examination, electromyography, and 3D endoanal ultrasonography. Results. 5 patients showed intact anal sphincters and puborectalis muscle. 4 patients found with thick IAS > 4 mm, 4 patients with thin IAS < 2 mm. 3 patients with thin EAS, 12 patients with IAS defects, 15 patients with EAS defects, 8 patients with combined IAS and EAS defects, 2 patients with puborectalis muscle defects and 3 patients with high levels transsphincteric perianal fistulas. Conclusion. No significant relationship was observed between sphincter damage except for combined internal and external sphincter injury and the severity score of FI symptoms. Puborectalis muscle injury and abnormal sphincter thickness are unlikely causes of severe FI.