ABSTRACT
Anal incontinence is the involuntary loss of solid or liquid feces or flatus from the anal canal. The individual with anal incontinence suffers a heavy physical and psychological burden. Evaluation of a patient with symptoms of fecal incontinence can involve multiple diagnostic techniques. To make optimal use of each diagnostic modality, the examiner should have a thorough understanding of the risk factors and etiology of fecal incontinence. The majority of patients with symptoms of fecal incontinence can be managed initially in the ambulatory setting with conservative treatment. Patient diaries and questionnaires have been developed to help standardize the evaluation of anal incontinence. There are multiple studies in the literature which attempt to assess whether additional diagnostic testing is necessary for patients with anal incontinence who have already undergone a thorough history and physical examination. Endoanal ultrasound is a popular office-based procedure that can be used to assess anal canal musculature in patients with fecal incontinence.
