Open AccessMetrics Used to Quantify Fecal Incontinence and Constipation
Author(s) -
Cameron W. Hunt,
Paul Cavallaro,
Liliana Bordeianou
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
clinics in colon and rectal surgery
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.884
H-Index - 38
eISSN - 1521-5741
pISSN - 1530-9681
DOI - 10.1055/s-0040-1714245
Subject(s) - fecal incontinence , constipation , medicine , quality of life (healthcare) , pelvic floor , physical therapy , intensive care medicine , surgery , nursing
While fecal incontinence and constipation can be measured through physiological testing, the subjective experience of severity and impact on health-related quality of life lead to both being most effectively captured through patient-reported measures. Patient-reported measures of severity and impact help to determine baseline symptoms, guide clinical decision making, and compare various treatments. Here, we take pause to review the psychometric qualities that make effective instruments, and discuss some of the most commonly used instruments along with the reasons behind their use. In addition, we highlight the benefits of a standardized instrument designed to evaluate the major symptoms of patients presenting with pelvic floor disorders (including fecal incontinence and constipation). Ultimately, we aim to provide guidance in choosing appropriate instruments for clinical and research use.