An External and inexpensive device that enables the incontinent patient to control the time, frequency and place of defecation is described. It is based on the principle of the "BALL & SOCKET" valve. The "ball" is an inflatable silastic balloon whereas the "socket" is the anorectal junction. The same device can be used with minor modification in patients with terminal colostomy to make them continent and avoid the need for colostomy bags.
The new device has been used successfully in twenty incontinent children. Thirteen children were incontinent following surgery for high imperforate anus. Three were suffering from meningomyelocele and the remaining two suffered from severe incontinence following severe trauma to the perineum. Follow up period ranged from six months to three years without complications affecting the bowel and minor excoriations in skin.