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Anal sphincter pressure and the rectosphincteric reflex in the dog
1Department of Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis 95616.
American Journal of Veterinary Research
|February 1, 1988
Summary
Investigating anal sphincter pressure (ASP) in dogs, this study identified the rectosphincteric reflex. Balloon distension significantly reduced ASP, revealing a key physiological response.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Physiology
- Gastrointestinal Motility
Background:
- The anal sphincter pressure (ASP) is crucial for fecal continence.
- Understanding the neural reflexes controlling the anal sphincter is vital for diagnosing and treating defecation disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure anal sphincter pressure (ASP) in healthy conscious dogs.
- To identify and characterize the rectosphincteric reflex, a reflex that inhibits the internal anal sphincter.
Main Methods:
- ASP was measured in six healthy conscious dogs using a perfused miniature 4-lumen catheter.
- The rectosphincteric reflex was stimulated by inflating a balloon with 25 ml of air within the rectum.
Main Results:
- The mean resting ASP was 74.7 +/- 4.2 mm Hg.
- Stimulation of the rectosphincteric reflex by balloon distension decreased ASP to 35.9 +/- 4.9 mm Hg.
- This pressure reduction lasted for 22 +/- 1.5 seconds, returning to baseline despite continued distension. Atropine did not alter ASP or the reflex response.
Conclusions:
- The rectosphincteric reflex is a significant inhibitory reflex in dogs.
- This reflex plays a role in the dynamics of anal sphincter pressure regulation.
- The findings provide insights into the physiological control of defecation in canines.