Anorectal Manometry: A diagnostic tool for anorectal conditions

Verified by Dr. Deepakkumar Gupta, Sr. Consultant Gastroenterology, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai.

Anorectal manometry is a medical procedure that measures the pressure and function of the muscles in the rectum and anus. It is a valuable tool for diagnosing and evaluating a variety of anorectal conditions like anorectal motility disorders including:

• Fecal incontinence: Loss of bowel control, resulting in the accidental passage of stool
• Constipation: Difficulty passing stool, often accompanied by hard, dry stools
• Anismus: A condition in which the muscles around the anus tighten involuntarily, making it difficult to pass stool
• To teach biofeedback exercise in constipation and anal sphincter muscle training in incontinence and prior to colostomy closure
• Also, to detect integrity of anal sphincter muscles prior to complex anal fistula surgery

How does anorectal manometry work?

During a manometry procedure, a thin tube with a pressure sensor is inserted into the rectum. The tube is connected to a computer that records the pressure changes as the patient strains to have a bowel movement. The procedure is usually painless and takes about 30 minutes.

What does anorectal manometry show?

Manometry can show the following:

• The strength and coordination of the muscles in the rectum and anus
• Helps in evaluating constipation especially, dysynergic defecation disorder
• The ability of the patient to relax the muscles around the anus before passing stool

What are the benefits of anorectal manometry?

Manometry is a non-invasive procedure that can provide valuable information about the cause of anorectal conditions. This information can help doctors to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to the individual patient’s needs.

How to prepare for anorectal manometry?

There is no special preparation required for manometry. However, patients may be advised to eat a low-fiber diet for a few days before the procedure to reduce the likelihood of passing stool during the test. The patient may require to be given an enema to clear the rectum of stools

What to expect after anorectal manometry?

After manometry, patients may experience some mild discomfort or bloating. These symptoms usually go away on their own within a few hours.

Anorectal manometry is a safe and effective diagnostic tool that can be used to diagnose and evaluate a variety of anorectal conditions. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, talk to our expert, Dr. Deepakkumar Gupta, Sr. Consultant Gastroenterology, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai about anorectal manometry.

Call 022 6280 6280 for an appointment.