Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders, cilt.105, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
Background: Fecal incontinence (FI) is a common but often underrecognized symptom in people with multiple sclerosis (MS), markedly impairing quality of life. Non-pharmacological strategies are recommended as first-line management; however, existing evidence remains limited and fragmented. This review aimed to map current evidence on such interventions and identify key gaps to inform future research. Methods: A scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute's six-stage framework and reported according to PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Comprehensive searches were performed in PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, Scopus, and ScienceDirect, finalized in August 2025. Empirical studies investigating non-pharmacological management of FI in adults with confirmed MS were included. Two reviewers independently extracted and synthesized data using thematic analysis. Results: Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria. The most frequently evaluated interventions were transanal irrigation (n=6) and biofeedback therapy (n=4), followed by posterior tibial nerve stimulation (n=2), sacral neuromodulation (n=2), pelvic floor physiotherapy (n=1), and behavioral programs (n=1). These interventions showed promise in reducing FI symptoms and improving quality of life. However, most studies were limited by small sample sizes, heterogeneous protocols, and non–MS-specific outcome measures. Thematic analysis identified four key domains: clinical effectiveness; factors influencing treatment response; feasibility and sustainability; and research limitations with future directions. Conclusion: Non-pharmacological management of FI in MS appears safe, feasible, and potentially effective in improving symptoms and quality of life. Future research should adopt standardized protocols, MS-specific assessment tools, and long-term follow-up in larger samples. Integration of digital and home-based strategies may further enhance sustainability and accessibility of interventions.