Obstetric anal sphincter injury

Author(s): G. E. Fowler - Pages: 12–19

Abstract

Obstetric trauma following childbirth is the primary cause of faecal incontinence in women. Injury to the anal sphincter complex is common: it has been clinically diagnosed in 0.4–2.5% of vaginal deliveries involving a mediolateral episiotomyand in up to 19% of cases of midline episiotomy. Studies using endoanal ultrasound have reported occult anal sphincter injury in up to 35% of women after their first delivery. This paper reviews the risk factors for obstetric anal sphincter injury, as well as diagnosis and management of the condition.

Keywords: anal sphincter, faecal incontinence, obstetrics.