Percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) for faecal incontinence

For the treatment of

Faecal Incontinence

Commissioning position

This procedure is commissioned if:

  • recommended by a specialist MDT for a 12 week trial OR

  • recommended by a specialist MDT for continued PTNS following review of results of the 12 week trial by the specialist MDT

Summary of rationale

NICE concluded that there are no safety concerns, and that there is evidence of efficacy in the short term in a limited number of patients. They advise this procedure should only be used with special arrangements for clinical governance, consent and audit or research.  

 

NICE also advises that clinicians wishing to undertake PTNS for faecal incontinence should take the following actions:

  • Inform the clinical governance leads in their Trusts.
  • Ensure that patients and their carers understand the uncertainty about the procedure's efficacy and provide them with clear written information. In addition, the use of NICE's information for the public is recommended.
  • Audit and review clinical outcomes of all patients having PTNS for faecal incontinence.

 

This procedure should only be carried out in units specialising in the assessment and treatment of faecal incontinence, as one of a range of treatment options.

References

IPG395 PTNS faecal incontinence (NICE)

PTNS faceal incontinence - umbrella review

Associated Pathways

There are no associated pathways.

Specialties

Gastroenterology Hull Gastroenterology East Riding Gastroenterology North Lincolnshire Gastroenterology North East Lincolnshire Gastroenterology & Hepatology York Gastroenterology & Hepatology North Yorkshire

Places covered by

  • East Riding
  • Hull
  • North East Lincolnshire
  • North Lincolnshire
  • North Yorkshire
  • Vale of York
Author:
Date created: 12/06/2025, 10:19
Last modified: 15/07/2025, 15:14
Date of review: 31/01/2028