At the slightest and simplest sign of change in our body, we become completely worried, not to say absolutely desperate, especially after going through a global pandemic, as in the case of the Covid 19 pandemic.
When we stop for a moment to think about the most common symptoms of our body, we quickly remember the well-known digestive changes, such as constipation or fecal incontinence.
By the way, did you know that anorectal manometry is a procedure used precisely to evaluate patients with cases of constipation and incontinence?
If you are not familiar with this subject, we are here to help you with that.
From now on, we will present to you, in a current and detailed manner, very relevant information about this type of procedure so important for the care of the digestive system.
Shall we?
What is anorectal manometry?
Anorectal manometry is basically a test used to analyze patients of any age with conditions mainly of constipation or fecal incontinence.
It is a more in-depth study of the motility of the anus and the evacuation process.
It consists of meticulously evaluating and quantifying the pressure of the anal sphincter, which is the muscle responsible for the evacuation process, local sensitivity, the evacuation reflex, and the movements of evacuation.
The examination is performed without the administration of anesthesia or sedation. This is because it is important that the patient is fully conscious, since the objective of the examination is to measure the pressures of the sphincter muscles and the neural reflexes, responsible for the essential and normal movements of the intestine.
See now how anorectal manometry is done.
How is anorectal manometry performed?
As with some digestive system examinations, initially, the patient is advised to lie on the left side of the body for the correct performance of the examination.
After lying down, a lubricant is applied to the area and a small flexible probe the size of a thermometer, with a small balloon at its end, is then inserted into the rectum.
This probe is directly connected to a device responsible for obtaining precise and real measurements of internal pressures, and the small balloon at the end is inflated inside the rectum, precisely to assess the normality or not of the sphincter reflexes.
The examination lasts approximately 10 to 20 minutes and it may be that the person responsible for the examination asks the patient for some specific movements for a more accurate evaluation, such as the natural movements of evacuating, holding back, and even relaxing the sphincter.
A very positive point about the examination is that it is not a painful procedure, and, even though it is an examination in a more sensitive area and with more details, it is not considered dangerous.
It is important not to give up on the examination, as this will ensure the collection of more solid data for a better diagnosis.
When is anorectal manometry necessary?
Examinations are an important part not only in the search for answers to various health situations but also for some medium and long-term treatments.
In this aspect, we know that there are examinations that are performed periodically, however, and most of the time, the examination may be required by symptoms linked to significant changes in the gastrointestinal system.
Because it is an extremely sensitive area, the anorectal manometry examination is only requested in more peculiar situations, such as those we highlight below.
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- Muscle abnormality at the end of the intestine;
- Difficulties in evacuation;
- Pain during evacuation;
- Fecal incontinence or involuntary loss of stool.
The examination will directly contribute to a more accurate diagnosis, allowing the patient to immediately start the correct treatment.
Preparations and care before and after the examination
The most essential care before the examination, besides being important for a good and accurate diagnosis, can directly interfere with the results and consequently for the assertive treatment.
Check out some valuable tips for ideal preparation on the day of the examination:
- Do not fast unless requested by the specialist;
- Opt for light and easily digestible foods;
- Try to evacuate spontaneously before the examination;
- Do not use any laxative medication.
For the post-examination period, the old prescription prescribed by most professionals and regardless of the area is usually followed.
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- Rest after the examination for at least 24 hours;
- Drink plenty of fluids for effective hydration;
- Maintain a light diet;
- Avoid physical exertion and lifting heavy weights as much as possible.
These are measures that are quite well-known and even very common to other types of examinations and procedures of the gastrointestinal system or not, however, if followed as directed, they are very beneficial.
Considering the guidelines prescribed by the specialist who accompanies you is always the best way to keep your health up to date.
Where to do anorectal manometry?
Looking for specialized clinics with qualified professionals and good references among the population is one of the first steps before undergoing any type of examination.
In the case of anorectal manometry, since it is a procedure related to the digestive system, it is always wise to look for clinics that have as their main activity the care of the organs of the digestive system, such as the gastroenterologist and coloproctologist.
This is because clinics specialized in care, conducting targeted examinations, and developing treatments for diseases of this organ are clinics designed exactly to provide complete support.
So, if you need to perform this or another type of examination related to the digestive system, opt for renowned clinics and professionals with significant references.
Knowing a little more about anorectal manometry and its importance for the accurate diagnosis of the causes of constipation and fecal incontinence, we see that access to useful information is essential.
This brings to light the need to have the correct guidance in hand for better decision-making.
And the right place to find this and other information is the Gastroblog.
Its goal is to provide content directed with a technical/scientific standard in an uncomplicated way to patients and update them on diseases, symptoms, and treatments in a light and practical way.
Do not hesitate to access and learn about other content that is just as interesting and instructive.
It will be a pleasure to help you with that.
Best regards.
Image by Freepik
Doutor em Gastroenterologia pela FM-USP.
Especialista em Cirurgia do Aparelho Digestivo (HCFMUSP), Endoscopia Digestiva (SOBED) e Gastroenterologia (FBG).
Professor do curso de Medicina da Fundação Educacional do Município de Assis - FEMA.
Médico da clínica Gastrosaúde de Marília.