RVVP provides satisfactory improvement of combined defaecation and micturition disorders. The benefits of a limited extension of the RVP seem to outweigh potential side-effects such as deterioration or de novo defaecation or micturition disorders.

IPAA leads to a reduction of thickness of the internal anal sphincter and reduction of the MRP. Tapering or gaps in the internal anal sphincter are probably caused by direct trauma to this sphincter because of mucosectomy, whereas in cases of circular reduction of thickness of the internal anal sphincter without tapering or gaps, direct trauma is an unlikely explanation; this reduction is probably caused by denervation. IPAA compromises continence to a variable degree in 18 of 23 patients. No correlations were found between the extent of reduction of the MRP and the extent of reduction in internal anal sphincter thickness or between these two parameters and objectively or subjectively scored continence. Difficulties in obtaining reliable information on continence may be a causal factor. A striking discrepancy was noticed among objective, scored disturbances in continence, and overall satisfaction concerning level of continence by patients themselves.

No abstract

Dynamic defecography is indispensable for tailoring surgical treatment. Effective transabdominal shortening of the efferent limb can be performed with the aid of a linear stapler.

Rectovaginopexy provides significant one-year improvement of both constipation and fecal incontinence. The positive effect on constipation did not deteriorate with time, in contrast to the effect on fecal incontinence.