Gluteus Maximus Transposition for Anal Incontinence

Chang, Ji Young; Kim, Cheong Tong; Kim, Kweon Cheon; Min, Young Don

Abstract

Anal incontinence following pelvic trauma, surgery or neurologic disorder has significant medical and social implications. When no known functioning sphincter muscles are present, surgical correction of this distressing condition other than by stomal fecal diversion is aimed at recreating a sphincter mechanism under voluntary control. The use of the gluteus maximus encircling the neorectum with a contractile muscualr ring provides an active control of continence and reserves the anorectal angulation. The sacrifice of the entire gluteus maximum muscle in an ambulatory patient will cause difficulty in climbing stairs; however, the use of the anatomically dissected lower half will preserve its function. With careful dissection, the lower half of the g1uteus maximus muscle together with its neurovascular supply can be developed for anal sphincter reconstruction. Three Patient, (two men and one woman) underwent g1uteus maximus transposition for complete anal incontinence. The indication for operation were sphincter destruction secondary to extensive soft tissue necrosis on perianal, perineal and buttock area due to necrotizing fascitis(n=2), and soft tissue defect on perianal, buttock area due to trauma(n=1). The procedure is performed with the use of a diverting colostomy. The inferior portion of the origin of each gluteus maximus is detached from the sacrum and coccyx, bifurcated,and tunneled subcutaneously to encircle the anus. The ends were sutured together to form two opposing slings of voluntary muscles. Postoperatively two patient regained continence to solid stool, one to liquid stool as well. The technique of constructing sphincter is simple and utilizes principles of muscle tendon transfer without jeopardizing function of gait. Furthermore the gluteus maximus muscle, being an accessory muscle of anal continence, is an ideal structure for this reconstruction.