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Related Experiment Videos

Rectal hyposensitivity.

Marc A Gladman1, Peter J Lunniss, S M Scott

  • 1Gastrointestinal Physiology Unit, Barts and The London, Queen Mary's School of Medicine and Dentistry, Whitechapel, London, United Kingdom.

The American Journal of Gastroenterology
|May 16, 2006
PubMed
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Rectal hyposensitivity (RH), a reduced sense of rectal fullness, is common in functional bowel disorders. Sensory-retraining biofeedback shows promise for improving rectal sensory function in patients with RH.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Physiology
  • Neurogastroenterology

Background:

  • Rectal hyposensitivity (RH) is characterized by diminished perception of rectal distension.
  • It is frequently observed in patients with functional bowel disorders, particularly functional constipation and fecal incontinence.
  • RH is often the sole identifiable abnormality in anorectal physiologic testing for these patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current understanding of rectal hyposensitivity.
  • To explore its role in the etiology and management of functional bowel disorders.
  • To highlight unanswered questions regarding its clinical significance.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on rectal hyposensitivity and functional bowel disorders.

Related Experiment Videos

  • Analysis of diagnostic criteria and potential confounding factors in physiologic testing.
  • Evaluation of current and emerging treatment strategies.
  • Main Results:

    • Rectal hyposensitivity is prevalent in functional constipation and may contribute to symptoms.
    • Diagnosis via sensory threshold volumes can be affected by rectal wall properties.
    • Sensory-retraining biofeedback is the most effective short-term treatment, improving rectal sensory function.

    Conclusions:

    • The precise contribution of RH to functional bowel disorders requires further investigation.
    • The etiology of RH remains unclear, with potential links to nerve injury and behavior.
    • Clinicians and researchers must acknowledge RH's potential importance for future research and patient care.