Manometry offers useful diagnostic information.(Gynecology)

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. -- Anal manometry is a useful tool for the evaluation of patients with abnormal anorectal physiology, including those presenting with constipation, fecal incontinence, proctalgia, or rectal prolapse, according to Dana R. Sands, M.D.

Manometry provides information about the functional status of the anal sphincter and distal rectum, and often is used with other tests such as anal ultrasound, anal sphincter EMG, pudendal nerve terminal motor latency assessment, and defecography, said Dr. Sands of the Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston.

In patients with fecal incontinence, for example, anal ultrasound is the cornerstone of treatment, but anal manometry, EMG, and pudendal nerve assessment "round out the evaluation," she said at a symposium on pelvic floor disorders sponsored by the Cleveland Clinic Florida.

Anal manometry, however, is not well standardized, Dr. Sands said, noting that different facilities have different protocols and normal values.

Some manometry devices include a microtransducer, some use air-filled balloon systems, and still others use continuously perfused probes. The Cleveland Clinic uses ...