الفهرس 
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Abstract
The aim of this essay is to discuss the different dimensions of FI and
to declare the different tools of clear diagnosis and the different options
of management of the condition and its complications.
Fecal incontinence (FI) is the involuntary passage of bowel contents
through the anus or through an external stoma. It ranges from the
unintentional elimination of flatus to the seepage of liquid fecal matter or
sometimes the complete evacuation of bowel contents. It occurs in about
1% to 7.4% in general populations, and up to 25% in elderly populations.
Not surprisingly, this condition causes considerable embarrassment that
in turn causes loss of self-esteem, social isolation and diminished quality
of life. FI not only causes significant morbidity in the community but it
also consumes substantial health care resources (Rao, 2004).
The anus is the outlet of the gastrointestinal tract and evacuation of
bowel contents depends on action by the muscles of both the involuntary
internal anal sphincter (IAS), the voluntary external anal sphincter (EAS)
and the pelvic floor muscles (Goligher, et al., 1955). Normally the
process of defecation is an integrated somatovisceral reflex conducted
through a series of highly coordinated activities between C.N.S.,
anorectum, pelvic floor muscles and nerves, and anterior abdominal wall.
Various congenital, anatomical, neurological and functional abnormalities
can affect the integrity of this reflex and represented by FI (Jeyarajah, et
al., 2007).