Disorders of continence and defaecation: Insights into risk factors, underlying pathophysiology and treatment

Faecal incontinence (uncontrolled loss of stool) and constipation are common symptoms which can have a negative impact on quality of life. In this thesis we evaluated potential underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, some of which require further investigation to evaluate clinical importance (anal motor dysfunction), while others were shown to impact on symptom profile and severity (rectal sensorimotor dysfunction). Conservative (transanal irrigation) and surgical (sacral neuromodulation) treatment were studied, aiming to improve future management in these patients.