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Anorectal manometry in patients with chronic constipation: a single-center experience
Tso-Tsai Liu1, Chien-Lin Chen, Chih-Hsun Yi
1Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital and University School of Medicine, Hualien, Taiwan.
Hepato-Gastroenterology
|July 11, 2008
Summary
Patients with chronic constipation show impaired rectal sensitivity and reduced anal sphincter pressure. Anorectal manometry helps diagnose this dysfunction, aiding in better patient management.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Physiology
Background:
- Constipation is a prevalent condition with diverse clinical presentations.
- Understanding anorectal physiology is crucial for diagnosing chronic constipation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively evaluate anorectal physiological parameters in patients with chronic constipation.
- To identify specific manometric abnormalities associated with chronic constipation.
Main Methods:
- Solid-state anorectal manometry was performed on 24 consecutive patients with constipation and 15 healthy controls.
- Key parameters assessed included resting and squeeze sphincter pressures, sensory thresholds, rectal compliance, and the rectoanal inhibitory reflex (RAIR).
Main Results:
- Constipated patients had a higher threshold volume for initial rectal sensation (p < 0.05).
- A higher prevalence of impaired RAIR was observed in constipated individuals.
- Maximal squeeze anal pressure was significantly lower in patients with constipation (p < 0.05).
Conclusions:
- Chronic constipation is associated with diminished rectal sensitivity and decreased anal sphincter contractile function.
- Anorectal manometry is a valuable tool for diagnosing anorectal dysfunction in the context of chronic constipation.
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