Is stimulation a good thing? An overview of sacral nerve stimulation in faecal incontinence

Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) is a new technique used in the treatment of faecal incontinence. It refers to chronic low frequency electrical pulse stimulation of the sacral nerves at their spinal origin. SNS was first used in the treatment of urinary retention and detrusor instability, but has since been used in the treatment of faecal incontinence in patients with a functionally deficient but morphologically intact anal sphincter. Although the exact neuroanatomical mechanism is unclear, both motor and sensory components are believed to be involved. The greater than 75% reduction in the frequency of incontinent episodes and an almost complete resolution of symptoms (75-100%)12 may make SNS one of the most revolutionary treatments in this field.