Both of these muscles control the flow of bowel movements. However, when damaged, they may become weaker and less effective. As a result, the patient may lose control over their bowel movements, leading to sphincter injury symptoms, such as accidental bowel leakage.
How is a sphincter injury diagnosed?
History and physical exams are conducted to diagnose these injuries. The history exam focuses on learning about the patient’s obstetrical history, any history of anorectal surgery or injury, and their bowel habits or ability to control the passage of gas and stool.
Physical exams involve visual inspections of the anus, as well as digital examnations of the perineum and anal canal. Additional tests, like anal manometry tests to measure pressures within the anal canal, and endoanal ultrasounds to image the sphincter muscles, may be necessary.
Early diagnosis is crucial to commence treatment promptly and minimise the patient’s symptoms and suffering.
How is a sphincter injury treated?
Treatment options range from relatively mild, conservative approaches, such as pelvic floor exercises, medication, and diet adjustments, to specialised physiotherapy, which is the mainstay of treatment and is usually all that is needed in the vast majority of cases. Surgical repair of the sphincter muscles is rarely required.
