Insertion of a magnetic bead band for faecal incontinence

The condition

Faecal incontinence is when a person loses the ability to control their bowel movements, resulting in leakage of faeces. Faecal incontinence has many different causes. It can be distressing and can severely affect everyday life.

Treatment usually includes managing diet and medication to stop diarrhoea. This may be followed by pelvic floor muscle exercises and anal sphincter training. If these treatments fail, surgery may be needed.

NHS Choices (www.nhs.uk) and NICE's information for the public about faecal incontinence may be a good place to find out more.

NICE has looked at using inserting a magnetic bead band as another treatment option. Click on to the next page to find out more.