Clinical and manometric assessment of anorectal function after Martin's operation

Anorectal function after Martin's operation for total colonic aganglionosis was assessed in five patients by clinical and manometric studies. One year after operation the frequency of bowel movements decreased to three times a day, and the stools became semi-formed. Anorectal manometry showed decreasing anal resting pressure and anorectal pressure difference one month after the operation. However, these values became gradually normal. Rectal compliance increased as bowel function improved clinically. These results show that increasing rectal compliance and normalisation of stools by adequate absorption of intestinal fluid are important factors in the improvement of faecal continence after Martin's operation.