From the bottom up: a colorectal surgeon’s perspective of the pelvic floor

Author(s): A. D. Clarke - Pages: 19–24

Abstract

A deficient or dyssynergistic pelvic floor may initially be addressed by a physiotherapist with a special interest in this field. The majority of cases improve to the point of requiring no further treatment and never need an operation. For the minority that remain symptomatic, assessment through radiology and possibly anorectal physiology is then necessary to help tailor treatment. The two main topics discussed in this paper are faecal incontinence and constipation since these are two of the most prevalent pelvic floor problems encountered in our joint clinics. Rectal bleeding is also addressed since this is also a common symptom volunteered by our patients.

Keywords: colorectal surgery, constipation, faecal incontinence, pelvic floor, rectal bleeding.