Anorectal manometry

Anorectal manometry is performed to assess the sphincter function, anorectal perception and rectal compliance.

Anorectal manometry is the most important examination for fecal incontinence. It allows the strength of the internal sphincter (sealing) and the external sphincter (clamping function) to be measured. Testing of the sphincter muscles should also be carried out in cases of persistent constipation. It is not uncommon for there to be a problem of insufficient sphincter relaxation. Instead of opening when pressing, the sphincter muscle remains rigid or there is even a paradoxical tension.

Procedure of the examination

It is not necessary to prepare for the examination.

You will lie comfortably on your left side and you will be awake during the examination, as anal manometry is not usually painful. The probe for measuring the pressure is about 5 mm thick and is inserted through the anus.

The inner sphincter is measured passively. To measure the external sphincter, you must briefly tense the muscle several times. After measuring the sphincter function, the sensitivity in the rectum is determined. This is done by slowly inflating a thin balloon in the rectum. Sometimes incontinence or constipation can be traced back to excessive or absent perception of rectal filling.

The examination usually takes about 2 hours.