Fecal Incontinence: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment in Turkey

Causes of fecal incontinence

Fecal incontinence can be caused by several factors, including: 

• Damage to the anal sphincter: This is the muscle that controls the release of stool. Damage to this muscle due to childbirth, surgery, or trauma can lead to fecal incontinence. 
• Neurological disorders: such as Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis can affect the nerves that control the anal sphincter.
• Chronic constipation: may cause hardening of the stool, making it difficult to pass.
• Diarrhea: may also lead to fecal incontinence, as liquid stool may involuntarily leak from the rectum. 

In general, certain factors increase the risk of fecal incontinence, including:

• Older age.
• Female gender.
• Childbirth.
• Obesity.
• Surgical history: Some abdominal or pelvic surgeries can damage the nerves or muscles that control the anal sphincter. 

Symptoms of fecal incontinence

The main symptom is involuntary bowel movement.

Other symptoms may include:

• Fecal soiling: Stool may stain clothing or bedding. 
• Stool urgency: A sudden, urgent need to have a bowel movement.
• Inability to hold back gas.

Fortunately, Turquie Santé offers several treatment options for fecal incontinence, including non-surgical and surgical options. 

Choosing Turkey to treat fecal incontinence

Turkey is establishing itself as a leading destination for patients seeking an effective solution to fecal incontinence. The country boasts a modern medical infrastructure and highly qualified staff, offering patients advanced care at affordable prices.

Our partner clinics are equipped with the latest diagnostic and treatment equipment. This allows us to offer you personalized and effective solutions.

Don't wait any longer to take control of your health! Contact one of our specialists today to learn more about fecal incontinence treatment options in Turkey.

Diagnosis of fecal incontinence

The first step to a cure is an accurate diagnosis of the cause of fecal incontinence. There are many different types of incontinence, each with its own symptoms and underlying mechanisms.

During the clinical examination, the doctor will focus on the characteristics of the incontinence episodes (frequency, type of stool lost),the patient's general health and medical history.

To further explore the causes of fecal incontinence, the doctor may suggest a number of additional tests:

• Anorectal manometry: This test assesses the function of the anal sphincters and detects any sensitivity or contraction disorders.
• Transanal ultrasound: Performed by inserting an endoanal probe, this ultrasound provides a precise view of the anatomy of the pelvic floor and sphincters, allowing the identification of any lesions or abnormalities.

Depending on the results of the examination and the characteristics of the incontinence, the doctor will propose a personalized treatment.

Fecal incontinence treatment options in Turkey

Treatments for fecal incontinence vary depending on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause: 

• Lifestyle changes: Increased fiber intake, adequate hydration, and regular exercise may help improve symptoms in some patients. 
• Medications: Laxatives and antidiarrheals may be used to regulate stool consistency and reduce incontinence episodes. 
• Biofeedback therapy: May help strengthen anal sphincter muscles and improve bowel control. 
• Sacral stimulation: This treatment involves implanting a device that stimulates the sacral nerves that control the anal sphincter. 
• Surgical procedures: Repair of the anal sphincter, rectopexy, and implantation of an artificial anal sphincter. 

Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more about treatment options and pricing.

Process of fecal incontinence surgery in Turkey

The procedure depends on the specific surgery being performed. However, the general steps include general or spinal anesthesia to keep the patient asleep or unconscious during the procedure. The surgeon then makes an incision in the abdomen or perineum.

The specific procedure depends on the type of fecal incontinence and may include anal sphincter repair, rectopexy, implantation of an artificial anal sphincter, or other procedures. 

The incision is closed with stitches or staples. 

The length of surgery and hospital stay varies depending on the procedure performed. 

Generally, non-surgical procedures take less than an hour and do not require hospitalization.

Surgical procedures may take 1 to 3 hours and often require a hospital stay of 2 to 3 days.