Anal Continence Disorders
The partial or complete loss of the ability to control bowel contents—whether gas, liquid, or solid—is a condition that can occur temporarily or persistently. Because the timing of these episodes is unpredictable, those affected often experience significant limitations in their daily lives and a considerable reduction in quality of life. This is often accompanied by a heavy psychological burden.
The possible causes of fecal incontinence are diverse. They include injuries, sphincter muscle weakness or defects, pelvic floor prolapse, and overstretching due to constipation, as well as inflammatory bowel conditions (such as colitis), diarrhea, hemorrhoids, rectal prolapse, tumors in the intestinal area (e.g., the rectum), and disorders of nerve signal processing or neurological conditions (such as stroke or multiple sclerosis).
When patients visit my clinic, I take plenty of time for a thorough consultation. Only with a precise diagnosis and clear identification of the damaged or degenerated functional structures can an appropriate therapy be initiated to restore or improve continence. Treatment depends on the underlying cause, the specific symptoms, any existing or accompanying illnesses, and other individual factors.
Conservative treatment options are available, such as pelvic floor strengthening exercises, medication, and dietary interventions. Surgical therapies may also be considered to stimulate or reconstruct affected muscle areas, or even to replace damaged muscles. My focus is always on providing treatment that is as gentle as possible while being highly effective. If surgery is necessary, I perform it using the least invasive method possible.
