Anal canal vector volume manometry.

Area of Science:

• Physiology
• Medical Imaging
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Anal manometry assesses anal sphincter function in fecal incontinence.
• 3D anal endosonography enhances anatomical assessment.
• Vector volume manometry provides a 3D physiological view of anal sphincters.

Purpose of the Study:

• Review literature on vector volume manometry.
• Derive a standardization system for vector volume manometry.
• Summarize the physiological meaning of vector volume parameters.

Main Methods:

• MEDLINE search using "vector volume" or "vector manometry" and "anal canal".
• Reviewed references from identified articles.
• Included only English language human studies.

Main Results:

• Automated systems allow calculation of parameters like total vector volume, maximum pressure, and anal canal length.
• Vector volume parameters correlate with imaging results and incontinence scores.
• Standardization of equipment and technique is needed.

Conclusions:

• Conflicting studies exist on the clinical value of anal manometry and vector volume manometry due to lack of standardization.
• Vector volume manometry shows promise in treatment selection and preoperative assessment for anal pathology.
• Further standardization will improve the clinical utility of vector volume manometry.