Long-Term Outcome of Biofeedback versus Transcutaneous Posterior Tibial Nerve Stimulation in The Treatment of Functional Non-Retentive Fecal Incontinence

Abstract

Background: Faecal incontinence lowers children's quality of life (QoL) and is a psychologically distressing and unpleasant problem.

Objective: The aim of the study was to compare the outcomes of biofeedback training versus bilateral transcutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation (BTPTNS) in the management of children's functional no retentive faecal incontinence  (FNRFI) and how it affects quality of life (QoL).

Subjects and methods: The present study included 112 Children with FNRFI and received  one of two modalities of treatment either BTPTNS or biofeedback training. Eligible patients were followed up for 24 months for the  clinical outcomes and the QoL.

Results: Upon first evaluation, all QoL dimensions, incontinence episodes, incontinence score, and manometric findings showed no significant difference between the two groups. The anal pressures were significantly increased in both  groups in comparison with the initial findings with a significant increase in group B more than in group A. There was a significant  decrease in the IE and incontinence score (IS) in both groups after 24 months when compared to the initial values. All QoL parameters  were significantly within each group throughout the follow-up period however, there was a significant improvement in group B when  compared to group A.

Conclusion: Biofeedback and BTPTNS offered a beneficial line of treatment of FNRFI with a positive impact on QoL.