Anorectal Manometry

Anorectal manometry is a specialized test used to evaluate patients with constipation or fecal incontinence. This test measures the pressures of the anal sphincter muscles, the sensation in the rectum, and the neural reflexes that are needed for normal bowel movements. It is particularly useful for identifying "dyssynergy," where the muscles of the anal canal contract instead of relax during an attempted bowel movement, effectively blocking the exit. It can also help diagnose Hirschsprung's disease in children or assess the extent of muscle damage in patients with incontinence.

The procedure involves placing a small, flexible catheter with a balloon at the tip into the rectum. As the balloon is slowly inflated, the sensors record how the muscles react and at what point the patient feels the sensation of "fullness." This data provides a detailed map of the functional mechanics of the lower GI tract. By understanding the pressure dynamics and sensory thresholds, doctors can determine whether a patient’s symptoms are due to a physical blockage, a lack of muscle strength, or a coordination problem that could be addressed through biofeedback therapy.