Long-term outcomes of radiofrequency treatment for fecal incontinence: are the results maintainable?

PURPOSE: Temperature-controlled radiofrequency (RF) energy delivery to the sphincter complex has been proposed as an option for those patients not susceptible to a major surgical procedure for fecal incontinence (FI). The aim of the study was to evaluate the long-term (15 years) functional outcomes obtained after RF procedure for FI.

METHODS

This was a retrospective analysis of our prospectively collected database of patients that underwent RF procedure for FI. Primary outcomes measured were the Cleveland Clinic Florida Fecal Incontinence scale (CCF-FI), Fecal Incontinence-related Quality of Life Score (FIQLS), the 36-Item Short Form survey (SF-36), endoanal ultrasound, and anorectal manometry. Evaluations were compared at baseline and at 15 years of follow-up.

RESULTS

Ten patients were followed up 15 years after RF procedure. There was no significant improvement in the CCF-FI score (13.8 vs. 12.4, p = 0.24). No significant changes in the FIQLS were observed including lifestyle (2.39 vs. 2.13, p = 0.23), coping (1.91 vs. 1.92, p = 0.96), and embarrassment (1.66 vs. 1.86; p = 0.43). However, significant worsening was found in the depression category (2.47 vs. 1.60, p = 0.001). The SF-36 showed significant worsening in the mental (36.7 vs. 25.8, p < 0.001), physical (53.1 vs. 41.4, p = 0.01), and social functions (50.9 vs. 31.25, p = 0.001). Anorectal manometry and endoanal ultrasound showed no significant changes. No complications were found in the long-term follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Radiofrequency procedure for fecal incontinence did not maintain its efficacy during long-term follow-up.