Postanal repair for faecal incontinence.

Between 1977 and 1983, 105 patients had a postanal repair for the treatment of faecal incontinence. All except 8 patients were women. The principal reasons for operation were: persistent incontinence after rectopexy (n = 25), obstetric trauma (n = 18), anal dilatation (n = 12) and pelvic floor neuropathy (n = 41). One patient died after operation. Of 89 patients followed up for at least six months after operation, 56 (63%) have complete control of faeces and flatus, but 19 have control of solid faeces only and 14 are no better. The poor results were associated with wound sepsis and previous operations particularly in men.