Obtaining the correct diagnosis of your condition and getting the answers you need is possible when your Brooklyn gastroenterologist or other doctor uses tests like the anorectal manometry.
What Is an Anorectal Manometry?
This procedure tests how effective the rectum and anal sphincter are working. The circle of muscles located around the anus are responsible for opening and closing it, but can fail due to numerous reasons. An anorectal manometry procedure can tell if there is any deficiency in this muscle.
An anorectal manometry procedure can also provide information on:
- How sensitive the rectum is
- If the rectum is working properly
- How strong the muscles of the anus are
When Do You Need an Anorectal Manometry?
This diagnostic test is not uncommon. It is given to people who are experiencing symptoms of rectal incontinence, when control of the bowels is limited leading to leakage. In addition, it may be used to determine why a person suffers from chronic constipation or if Hirschsprung’s disease is present (a condition that develops in children that creates a blockage in the colon).
What Happens During the Anorectal Manometry?
When you come in for an anorectal manometry with your doctor in one of our Brooklyn, NY offices, either in Cobble Hill or on Ocean Parkway, you’ll lay down on your side and a small tube will be placed in the anus into the rectum. Then a balloon located on the tip of the tube will inflate gently. As it does, the nerves of the rectum and anus naturally react. The device the tube is attached to records the reaction of the nerves, both the contractions and relaxations that occur.
During the procedure, you may feel some slight discomfort, but it does not cause pain. Once the tube is in place, you may feel pressure changes, and after you’ll feel the tube being withdrawn. Your Brooklyn gastroenterologist will examine the results of the test afterwards. The exam takes about 20 minutes to complete.
What Will the Anorectal Manometry Tell Your Doctor?
The anorectal manometry procedure is a straightforward procedure. Your doctor is likely to be able to provide results after the procedure is over. Depending on the weakness of these muscles as well as any type of other symptoms you have, your doctor may recommend a treatment plan for you. Most common treatments for incontinence and proper function include the following:
- You may need to make changes in your diet to include more fiber (or less) to aid in controlling bowel production.
- You may need medications that can help with control and constipation.
- Some individuals may be taught muscle strengthening exercises to help reduce incontinence.
- Some patients may need a surgical repair to improve damage to the rectum or muscles.
When Should You Get an Anorectal Manometry?
This procedure is often recommended by your gastroenterologist or other Brooklyn doctor after you’ve expressed concerns about symptoms related to incontinence or constipation. The procedure can be done in your doctor’s office and doesn’t take much time. However, it can lead to significant understanding of what’s happening as well as improvement in your quality of life.