Artificial anal sphincter implantation

Current evidence on the safety and efficacy of artificial anal sphincter implantation does not appear adequate for this procedure to be used without special arrangements for consent and for audit or research.

Clinicians wishing to undertake artificial anal sphincter implantation should take the following actions.

• Inform the clinical governance leads in their Trusts.

• Ensure that patients understand the uncertainty about the procedure's safety and efficacy and provide them with clear written information. Use of the information for the public is recommended.

• Audit and review clinical outcomes of all patients having artificial anal sphincter implantation.

Publication of safety and efficacy outcomes will be useful in reducing the current uncertainty. NICE may review the procedure upon publication of further evidence.

It is recommended that this procedure is carried out only in units with a specialist interest in faecal incontinence.