Secca System for faecal incontinence

NICE has developed a medtech innovation briefing (MIB) on the Secca System for faecal incontinence.

The Secca System is a device that is used to apply radiofrequency energy to the internal anal sphincter muscle in the anal canal (known as Secca Therapy) to treat faecal incontinence. The available evidence, which is of limited quality, quantity and generalisability, shows short‑term improvements in both faecal incontinence and quality of life, with no significant improvements in the relevant patient-reported scores in the medium and long term (1 and 3 years). The single-use Secca handpiece costs £1,495 and the reusable radiofrequency controller costs £25,000 (both excluding VAT).

MIBs provide a description of the medical technology, including its likely place in therapy, the costs of using the technology and a critical review of the strengths and weaknesses of the relevant published evidence.

Their purpose is to provide objective information on device and diagnostic technologies to aid local decision-making by clinicians, managers and procurement professionals. By making this information available, NICE helps to avoid the need for NHS organisations to produce similar information for local use.

MIBs are not NICE guidance. They differ in format, contain no judgement on the value of the technology and do not constitute a guidance recommendation.

MIBs are commissioned by NHS England and produced in support of the NHS 5 Year Forward View, specifically as one of a number of steps which will accelerate innovation in new treatments and diagnostics.