Faecal Incontinence (FI), represents a significant clinical challenge affecting millions worldwide and often entails significant psychosocial burdens for patients. This round table discussion will gather experts from urogynaecology, colorectal surgery and gastroenterology to critically examine key challenges and the latest advancements in managing this complex condition.

Over one hour, this interactive session will allow the audience to engage in a fun and meaningful dialogue with the panelists. The session will cover integration of interdisciplinary approaches to enhance patient outcomes and explore the psychosocial implications inherent in FI management. Emerging technologies and e-health will also be discussed, illustrating how these advancements can support clinical decision-making and symptom management.

Panel

• Emma Carrington - Consultant Colorectal Surgeon, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
• Alex Digesu - Consultant Urogynaecologist, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
• Tom Dudding - Consultant Colorectal Surgeon, University Hospital, Southampton, United Kingdom
• Leila Neshatian - Consultant Gastroenterologist, Stanford Health Care, Redwood City, USA

Learning Objectives

• Gain insights into the latest strategies for optimising care pathways for faecal incontinence.
• Learn to recognise the overlap between urinary and fecal incontinence and explore effective management approaches within an interdisciplinary framework.
• Discuss the significance of tailoring treatment plans for individual patients and examine criteria that guide the selection of appropriate interventions for faecal incontinence.
• Understand the psychosocial impact of fecal incontinence and explore coping strategies and psychological treatments that can enhance patient support.
• Gain knowledge of recent advancements in e-health and other technological innovations.

Session Structure

Welcome and Introduction (5 minutes)

Innovation 1: Improving Pathways (10 minutes)

• Optimising treatment of FI in the community
• Referral pathways - ensuring the right patient reaches secondary care
• Optimising care within different healthcare systems - the UK and the US perspective
• Getting it Right First Time - streamlining care

Innovation 2: Recognising combined Faecal and Urinary Incontinence (10 minutes)

• Addressing the overlap of fecal and urinary incontinence
• Pathway development and the importance of a joint approach
• What makes a good multidisciplinary team?
• The benefits of unit accreditation

Innovation 3: Personalised Treatment (10 minutes)

• When to perform anorectal function testing
• Algorithms vs. physiology-based care
• How to select the best treatment: neuromodulation, sphincter repair, stoma
• New kids on the block: what emerging treatments have promise

Innovation 4: Addressing the Psychosocial Burden (10 minutes)

• Impact of fecal incontinence on mental health
• Coping strategies and the role of psychological treatments

Innovation 5: Role of Emerging Technology (10 minutes)

• The integration of e-medicine and e-health
• Understanding symptom burden through technological advancements

Conclusions and thank you (5 minutes)