The Secca^®Procedure for the Treatment of Fecal Incontinence: Definitive Therapy or Short-Term Solution

Abstract

The treatment of fecal incontinence by means of radiofrequency energy is based on the concept that collagen deposition and subsequent scarring may increase one's ability to recognize and retain stool and permit improved continence. The procedure is undertaken on an outpatient basis. Individuals may be considered candidates even if they have a potentially reparable defect since the technique does not limit one to the application of a subsequent procedure. Clearly, those for whom other treatment methods have failed and those who have no other reasonable option in the management of their fecal incontinence should be considered for this procedure. Preliminary results are quite encouraging, and the results of a prospective, sham-controlled, randomized clinical trial are awaited.

An Evidence-Based Approach to the Evaluation, Diagnostic Assessment, and Treatment of Fecal Incontinence in Women

“…RF-induced injury to the IAS is thought to cause collagen deposition and fibrosis, potentially tightening the affected anal canal. [97] A similar procedure has been used in the treatment of gastro-esophageal reflux disease and benign prostatic hypertrophy. [97] A five-year follow-up study published in 2008 showed 84% had ≥50% symptomatic improvement.…”

“…[97] A similar procedure has been used in the treatment of gastro-esophageal reflux disease and benign prostatic hypertrophy. [97] A five-year follow-up study published in 2008 showed 84% had ≥50% symptomatic improvement. [98] Other studies have shown similar positive results.…”

New developments in therapies for fecal incontinence

“…Temperature-controlled radiofrequency energy (Secca, Mederi Therapeutics Inc., Norwalk, Connecticut, USA) obtained FDA clearance in 2002 to treat fecal incontinence [13]. The transanal device delivers energy via four needles circumferentially in four quadrants into the muscles of the anorectum.…”

Evidence-Based Update on Treatments of Fecal Incontinence in Women

“…In theory, heat applied to the submucosa induces collagen denaturation and tissue fibrosis, thus the affected anal canal becomes constricted with increased resistance to stool passage. [110,111] A similar technique has been used for gastro-esophageal reflux disease and benign prostatic hypertrophy. [110] The long-term (5 years) study of the Secca® system reported that the mean Wexner incontinence score improved from 14 to 8 (p < 0.0003), and 84% of the subjects achieved ≥ 50% symptomatic improvements.…”