Normative values in anorectal manometry using microtip technology: a cohort study in 172 subjects.

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology and Hepatology
• Physiology
• Medical Engineering

Background:

• Anorectal manometry is crucial for assessing pelvic floor function.
• Microtip technology and surface electromyography (s-EMG) provide objective measurements.
• Normative data in healthy individuals is essential for accurate diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• Establish normative values for resting/squeeze pressures and s-EMG using microtip technology.
• Determine the relationship between objective manometric values, gender, and age.
• Analyze s-EMG patterns in a healthy cohort.

Main Methods:

• 172 healthy subjects (106 males, 66 females) underwent anorectal manometry with a microtip transducer.
• Endoanal s-EMG was performed using a bipolar plug electrode.
• s-EMG patterns (plateau, peak, decrease) were assessed, and data correlated with gender and age.

Main Results:

• Women had significantly lower squeeze pressure and s-EMG amplitude/area than men (p < 0.001).
• Resting pressure showed no gender difference.
• Gender significantly influenced s-EMG patterns: plateau in males, peak in females; peak pattern correlated with higher squeeze pressures.

Conclusions:

• Gender is the primary determinant of objective anorectal manometry values in healthy individuals.
• Significant gender-specific differences exist in squeeze pressures and s-EMG patterns.
• Manometric results require interpretation considering gender and methodology; further research on aging effects is needed.