Anorectal Manometry – Kolkata-Based Gastro Surgeon Explained

Anorectal Manometry Overview

Anorectal manometry is a test that determines how well the rectum and anal sphincters cooperate to remove stool (faeces). The internal and external valves of the anal sphincter help govern stool continence (passing). Muscles control the opening and closing of these valves, which allow the anus to open and close. The test is carried out to determine how well it functions, says the Best  Gastro  &  Cancer  Surgeon  in  Kolkata .

When is Anorectal Manometry Necessary?

Anorectal manometry is a test that is usually performed on persons who have:

• Trouble passing stool
• Faecal incontinence (the inability to control one’s intestines, resulting in faeces leaks)
• Constipation (lesser than 3 bowel movements per week)
• Hirschsprung’s disease, a condition that affects children by causing intestinal blockage

How is the Procedure Performed?

A short flexible tube with a balloon on the end is introduced via the anal orifice, past the anal sphincter, and into the rectum. The little balloon at the catheter’s tip inflates gradually. The nerves and muscles of the rectum and anus begin to squeal as a result. The tube’s end is visible outside the anus. It’s attached to a machine that records the rectum and anal sphincter’s contractions and relaxations.

What should You do to Prepare for the Test?

It’s possible that you’ll need to get your body ready for anorectal manometry. This preparation is required to ensure that no stool remains in the rectum throughout the test. The  best  Gastrointestinal  and  Cancer  Surgeon in Kolkata will  advice  you to do the following before the test:

• After midnight the night before the test, don’t eat or drink anything.
• Before the exam, make sure your bowels are empty.
• Two to three hours before your appointment, give yourself an enema. Enemas are available at your local pharmacy.

What Happens During the Test?

According to the best  Gastro  &  Cancer  Surgeon  in  Kolkata, you can anticipate the following during the test:

• During the exam, you will not be anaesthetized.
• It will be necessary for you to lie on your side.
• A small, flexible tube (about 0.25 inch in diameter) will be introduced slowly through the anal sphincter and into the rectum.
• Although you may have some discomfort as the tube is implanted, you should not experience any pain.
• The exposed end of the tube will be connected to a machine that will record the pressure changes (muscle contractions and relaxation) in your rectum and anal sphincter after it is in place.
• The tube will be slowly withdrawn after the measurements have been taken. The recordings made during the test will be interpreted by the gastroenterologist .

The test will take 10-20 minutes to finish.