Risks include infection, erosion, and device malfunction requiring revision. These are uncommon but real, and detailed counselling about expectations is essential before committing to this option.

✦ IMPLANTABLE SPHINCTER DEVICE

Artificial Bowel Sphincter

Q: Is the device permanent?

The device is designed for long-term use but may require revision or replacement over years. Detailed counselling about expectations and long-term care is part of the assessment.

Q: Will the device be visible?

The components are placed beneath the skin and not visible externally. The control pump is in the labia or scrotum and easily accessible to the patient.

Q: How does the device work?

The cuff around the anus stays inflated to keep stool in. When the patient wants to defecate, they deactivate the device through the pump, allowing the cuff to deflate. After bowel movement, the device automatically reinflates.

Implantable artificial sphincter device that mimics the natural sphincter muscle — used in select severe incontinence cases where other treatments have failed.

120–180 min PROCEDURE

3–5 Days HOSPITAL STAY

>70% SUCCESS RATE

3–4 Weeks RETURN TO WORK

What is Artificial Bowel Sphincter?

The Artificial Bowel Sphincter is an implantable device that mimics the natural anal sphincter muscle in patients with severe fecal incontinence where other treatments — including sphincteroplasty and sacral neuromodulation — have failed. The device consists of a fluid-filled cuff placed around the anal canal, a small pressure-regulating balloon, and a control pump in the labia or scrotum. The patient deactivates the device when they want to pass stool. Dr. Tejasree Vengala performs artificial bowel sphincter implantation at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad, in carefully selected severe incontinence cases.

Reserved for adults with severe end-stage fecal incontinence not responsive to other treatments, with adequate skin and tissue health, and motivation to manage the device.

How the Procedure Works

Detailed Assessment

A thorough pelvic floor evaluation, sphincter assessment, and counselling about the device confirm suitability for implantation.

Anaesthesia & Implant Preparation

Surgery is performed under general anaesthesia. The device components are carefully prepared.

Cuff Placement

A small incision is made to create a tunnel around the anal canal, and the inflatable cuff is placed around it.

Balloon and Pump Placement

The pressure-regulating balloon is placed in the lower abdomen, and the control pump is placed in the labia or scrotum.

Activation & Recovery

The device is initially left deactivated for healing. After 6–8 weeks, the device is activated and the patient is trained on its use.

Outcomes

120–180 minDURATION

3–5 DaysHOSPITAL STAY

>70%SUCCESS RATE

8–12 WeeksFULL RECOVERY

Who Needs This Treatment?

→Effective for severe end-stage incontinence
→Mimics the natural sphincter function
→Significantly improves continence and dignity
→Patient-controlled deflation for bowel movements
→Avoids the need for permanent stoma in select patients
→Compassionate care for the most challenging incontinence cases

An artificial bowel sphincter is reserved for the most severe cases — patients who have tried everything and feel they have run out of options. For the right person, it can be a final, life-changing chance to regain control and avoid a permanent stoma.

— — Dr. Tejasree Vengala, Consultant Proctologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the device permanent?+

Will the device be visible?+

How does the device work?+

What are the risks?+

Not sure which treatment is right for you?

Book a consultation with Dr. Tejasree Vengala and get a personalised treatment plan.

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