LAUSR

Refractory constipation and faecal incontinence among adults is a common presentation to surgical clinics. ACE stoma has been tried and proven as a successful treatment modality in children. Although it is an acceptable treatment modality in adults, there is little prospective evidence available regarding its use and hence it has not yet come in vogue. A literature review was carried out using PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Cinahl and Scopus for studies involving ACE stoma in adults with refractory constipation or faecal incontinence; with a view to determine ACE Stoma as a safe treatment modality among adult population. A total of 27 studies were identified through database searches. 6 full text articles were included in the literature review describing a total of 209 adult patients; with male to female ratio of 1:3.4, mean age of 35 years and a mean follow up of 42.9 months. Complications discussed include perioperative and long-term stenosis (29%) and leak rates (60%); affecting the quality of life. No statistical difference was noted among the different types of ACE Conduit used. There was significant heterogeneity amongst the studies. ACE stoma is not without complications; however studies reveal that this can be offered as a safe treatment modality among carefully selected adult patients for the treatment of refractory constipation or fecal incontinence. Adults, Refractory Constipation, Faecal Incontinence, Antegrade Colonic Enema (ACE) Stoma