Int J Gastrointest Interv.  2024 Oct;13(4):114-121. 10.18528/ijgii240062.

The effect of low-level laser therapy on external anal sphincter repair and treatment of fecal incontinence: A double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial

• Yousefifard M
• Imani F
• Mahjoubi B
• Shamseddin J
• Sarveazad S
• Vazirizadeh-Mahabadi M
• Yarahmadi M
• Sarveazad A

• KMID: 2560774
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.18528/ijgii240062

Abstract

Background
Fecal incontinence (FI) results from damage to the external anal sphincter (EAS), significantly affecting quality of life. This clinical trial evaluated the impact of low-level laser (LLL) therapy on EAS repair and the treatment of FI.
Methods
Thirty FI patients with EAS deficiency were divided into two groups (n = 15): a control group receiving sphincteroplasty alone and a laser group undergoing sphincteroplasty plus laser therapy. Following surgery, the laser group received daily laser therapy for 2 weeks. Outcomes were assessed using Wexner scores, electromyography (EMG), and endorectal sonography.
Results
The laser group exhibited a significant increase in muscle bulk (P = 0.008) and a lower Wexner index (P < 0.0001) compared to the control group. EMG confirmed muscle contractility in the laser group.
Conclusions
Two weeks of LLL therapy effectively increased muscle at the EAS injury site, leading to significant, lasting improvements in FI.

Keyword

Constipation; Fecal incontinence; Low-level light therapy; Manometry; Pelvic floor disorders