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Anorectal function in normal human subjects: effect of gender.
1Sub-Department of Human Gastrointestinal Physiology and Nutrition, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, UK.
International Journal of Colorectal Disease
|August 1, 1989
Summary
Males exhibit higher anal pressures and external anal sphincter (EAS) activity than females during anorectal manometry. These differences were observed at rest, during maximum contraction, and rectal distension, indicating sex-based variations in anorectal function.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Anorectal manometry and electromyography are key diagnostic tools for evaluating pelvic floor disorders.
- Understanding sex-based differences in anorectal function is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and compare anorectal pressures and external anal sphincter (EAS) and internal anal sphincter (IAS) electromyography activity between males and females.
- To assess the impact of rectal distension and intra-abdominal pressure on these parameters.
Main Methods:
- Multiport anorectal manometry and EAS/IAS electromyography were performed on 15 males and 20 females.
- Measurements were taken during rest, maximum voluntary contraction, rectal distension, and increased intra-abdominal pressure.
Main Results:
- Basal anal pressure stabilized at approximately 55% of the initial value post-probe insertion.
- Males demonstrated significantly higher maximum basal, minimum basal, and maximum squeeze pressures compared to females.
- Rectal balloon distension induced anal relaxation, associated with rectal contractions and transient EAS activity. Post-inflation and residual pressures were higher in males.
Conclusions:
- Significant sex-based differences exist in anorectal manometry and EAS/IAS electromyography parameters.
- Males generally exhibit higher resting and contraction pressures, and greater EAS activity during rectal distension compared to females.