the present invention relates to a method and apparatus for treating fecal incontinence . a smooth muscle sphincter is implanted about the distal part of the large intestine in the region of internal anal sphincter or the anal canal , the rectum or the sigmoid colon . the smooth muscle sphincter is electrically stimulated by a stimulator device , in order to contract the smooth muscle sphincter and maintain continence . stimulation is ceased or varied in order to allow the smooth muscle sphincter to relax and the patient to defecate .