Anorectal manometry is a test used to measure pressure in the anorectal region. It is indicated when the patient suffers from involuntary leakage of fecal matter through the anus (fecal incontinence) or difficulty in defecation, manifested as the need to strain to defecate, the feeling that not all the contents have been evacuated, or the need to remove fecal matter with the finger (functional obstruction of the outlet tract). On the other hand, it is a test that may be requested before proctological or gynecological surgery.
If, in addition to these symptoms, you have blood in your stool, unexplained weight loss, anemia, are over 50 years old, or have a family history of colon cancer in first-degree relatives, your doctor will recommend that you have a colonoscopy first.
Anorectal manometry is a test performed while the patient is awake. It lasts approximately 10-20 minutes. Preparation consists of performing a cleansing enema 2 hours before the procedure. The enema involves inserting a liquid into the rectum through a container with a cannula (purchased at a pharmacy). You should retain it as long as possible and then expel it. This serves to clean the last part of the intestine so that the study can be performed properly. It does not cause diarrhea, so you will not have any problems during transport.
An anesthetic gel will be applied to the anorectal area. Prior to the examination, a brief examination of the anorectal area will be performed, including a rectal examination.
Manometry involves inserting a probe with an inflatable balloon at the end, which is advanced 10 cm into the rectum. You will be asked to contract your anus, performing the movement you normally do to have a bowel movement, and sensory sensitivity will be measured by sequentially inflating the balloon. After this, the probe is removed and the doctor analyzes the data obtained.
This test is often supplemented in cases of difficulty passing stool with a balloon expulsion test, which involves placing a probe with a balloon in the rectum. The balloon is inflated with water. You will be asked to sit on the toilet and strain to try to expel it as if it were fecal matter.
