The magnetic anal sphincter: a new device in the management of severe fecal incontinence

Abstract

The authors aim to report the concept and technique of implantation and the first results of the clinical use of the magnetic anal sphincter (MAS) in the management of fecal incontinence (FI). The MAS device is designed to augment the native anal sphincter. The implant is a series of titanium beads with magnetic cores linked together with independent titanium wires. To defecate, the force generated by straining separates the beads to open up the anal canal. The technique of implantation is simple with no requirement of adjustments. The MAS has a role in the management of severe FI. The device has acceptable and comparable adverse effects to other therapies. FI and Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life scores are significantly improved in the short term. The MAS offers a simple and less invasive option of anal reinforcement. It is one step further in the quest for an ideal artificial anal sphincter device.

Evidence-Based Update on Treatments of Fecal Incontinence in Women

“…(Figure 6) This device is surgically implanted around the anal canal. [127,128] A similar device has been used to treat gastro-esophageal reflux disease. Short- to mid-term efficacy of MAS appears to be promising.…”

The magnetic anal sphincter: a seductive promise still not kept

“…There are some significant differences in the concept of the two devices, relating to the effectiveness and safety in humans. MSA is made of a series of beads independently linked to each other in the form of a collar [5]. This is placed around the anorectal junction through a perineal approach to support the lax anal canal responsible for faecal leakage while opening when the patient strains to evacuate.…”

Review of organic causes of fecal incontinence in children: evaluation and treatment

“…A recent Cochrane review failed to find sufficient evidence to support the efficacy of bulking agents in the treatment of adult FI [77]. Other surgical therapies for treatment of FI include artificial [78] and magnetic anal sphincter implantation [79,80] and rectal augmentation with and without electrically stimulated gracilis neosphincter [81,82]. There are no studies evaluating the efficacy of these treatments in the pediatric population.…”