AN INTERNATIONAL CONTINENCE SOCIETY (ICS) REPORT ON THE TERMINOLOGY FOR MALE ANORECTAL DYSFUNCTION

Abstract

Introduction: The terminology for anorectal dysfunction in men has long needed a specific clinically-based Consensus Report. Methods: This Report combines the input of a Working Group of members of the International Continence Society (ICS), assisted at intervals by external referees. Appropriate core clinical categories and a sub-classification were developed to give a coding to definitions. An extensive process of 18 rounds of internal and external review was involved to examine each definition, with decision-making by collective opinion (consensus). Results: A Terminology Report for male anorectal dysfunction, encompassing separate definitions, has been developed. It is clinically-based with the most common diagnoses defined. Clarity and user-friendliness have been key aims to make it interpretable by practitioners and trainees in all the different specialty groups involved in male anorectal dysfunction. Male-specific imaging (ultrasound, radiology and MRI) and conservative and surgical managements are major additions and appropriate figures have been included to supplement and clarify the text. Emerging concepts and measurements, in use in the literature and offering further research potential, but requiring further validation, have been included as an appendix. Interval (5-10 year) review is anticipated to keep the document updated and as widely acceptable as possible. Conclusion: A consensus-based Terminology Report for male anorectal dysfunction has been produced to aid clinical practice and research.