What is anorectal manometry?
The lower digestive system consists of the large intestine (ascending colon, transverse colon, descending colon, and sigmoid colon), rectum and anus. The rectum acts as a temporary storage area for feces - the waste product of the digestive system. The rectum connects to the anus and is the end of the digestive system.
Anorectal manometry is a test that measures how well the rectum and anal sphincter are working. The anal sphincter is the ring of muscles that control the opening and closing of the anus.
It is performed to check how sensitive the rectum is and how well it is working. The test also checks the strength of the muscles of the anus. These muscles control the opening and closing of the anus.
When would anorectal manometry be needed?
The anorectal manometry test is commonly given to people who have:
- Fecal incontinence (can't control bowels, results in leakage of feces)
- Constipation (less than three bowel movements a week)
- Hirschsprung's disease in children (a disease that can cause a blockage in the large intestine)
How the test works
A small tube (called a catheter) is inserted into the anus, passing a ring of muscles called the anal sphincter, before passing into the rectum. (See the illustration of the lower portion of the digestive system). A small balloon at the tip of the catheter is gradually inflated. This causes the nerves and muscles in the rectum and anus to begin to squeeze. The end of the tube remains outside the anus. It is connected to a machine that records the contractions and relaxations of the rectum and anal sphincter.
Before the test
- Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before the test.
- Your bowels need to be empty before your exam. You will need to give yourself a Fleet enema 2 to 3 hours before your appointment (You can purchase Fleet enemas at your local drug store or supermarket.)
- In most cases, this test will not interfere with any medications you may be taking. Ask your doctor if it is okay to take your prescribed medications the morning of the exam.
During the test
- You will not be sedated during the test.
- You will be asked to lie on your side.
- A small (about 0.6cm in diameter), flexible tube is inserted slowly through your anal sphincter and into your rectum.
- You may feel some slight discomfort as the tube is being inserted, but should not feel any pain.
- After the tube is in place, the exposed end is attached to a machine that will record the pressure changes (muscle contractions and relaxation) in your rectum and anal sphincter.
- After the measurements have been taken, the tube is then slowly withdrawn. The gastroenterologist will interpret the recordings that were made during the test.
- The exam will take between 10 and 20 minutes to complete.
After the test
- Your physician will discuss the results of the manometry test with you.
- You will go home and may resume your normal diet and activities.
- If you think you may be experiencing any unusual symptoms or side effects, call your doctor.
Treatment options
Treatment depends on how severe the problem is and what's causing it. Generally, treatment options include:
- Changes in diet
- Use of medications
- Muscle strengthening exercises
- Surgical repair