Gracilis muscle transplant for correction of traumatic anal incontinence: Report of a case.
We report a case of traumatic anal incontinence successfully treated by the transplant of a gracilis muscle sling, using the technique described by Pickrell et al. in 1952. Although gracilis muscle transplant has been used in the treatment of congenital anal incontinence, its use in traumatic cases has not been widely accepted. Instead, many techniques offering uncertain results have been employed. We believe that Pickrell's technique is a worthwhile procedure in the presence of traumatic anal incontinence, particularly with noniatrogenic large perineal wounds, and that establishment of a temporary colostomy immediately after the injury, together with use of surgical steel sutures and antibiotics, is very helpful in averting posttransplant infection.