Fecal Incontinence

Diagnosis

After learning the patient's history, physicians at Mayo Clinic use a various tests and procedures to diagnose fecal incontinence. Many of these tests were developed at Mayo Clinic. These include:

Physical exam — This may include a visual inspection of the anus and surrounding tissue as well as using a pin or probe to check for nerve damage.

Digital exam — During a digital exam, the physician will insert a gloved and lubricated finger into the rectum to check for muscle strength and irregularities.

Anal manometry test — Physicians at Mayo commonly use this to test the strength of the anal sphincter as well as the sensitivity and function of the rectum. To perform this test, physicians insert a tube that holds a small inflatable balloon into the anus and rectum.

Anorectal ultrasonography — A small wand like device (transducer) can be inserted into the rectum to create images of the internal structure of the rectum and sphincter.

Proctography — Physicians use barium to coat the walls of the rectum before taking X-rays. The barium makes it easier to evaluate the capacity of the rectum and how well the body expels stools.

Proctosigmoidoscopy — During this procedure a long, slender tube containing a video camera is inserted into the rectum and sigmoid colon (approximately two feet of colon). Physicians look for tumors, infections, inflammation or other problems that may influence fecal incontinence.

Anal electromyography (EMG) — Physicians perform this test by inserting tiny needle electrodes into the muscles around the anus to check for nerve damage.

Pelvic MRI — Magnetic resonance imaging scans of the pelvis show the anal sphincter and pelvic floor muscles, and also evaluate if the pelvic floor muscles move normally.