Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2025

In vitro Functional Characterization of Mouse Colorectal Afferent Endings
Published on: January 21, 2015
Rectal sensitivity and associated factors in patients with different subtypes of functional defecation disorder
Yi-Bing Zhang1, Zhi-Yang Huang, Jian-Wei Jin
1Department of Gastroenterology, Wenzhou Central Hospital (the Dingli Clinical College of Wenzhou Medical University), Wenzhou, China.
Objective:
To investigate rectal sensitivity and associated factors in patients with different subtypes of functional defecation disorder (FDD).
Methods:
We segregated individuals diagnosed with FDD into two groups based on their defecation patterns: those with dyssynergic defecation and those with inadequate defecatory propulsion. We gathered general information through questionnaires and assessed rectal sensitivity using anorectal manometry. The rectal sensitivity performances of the two groups were compared; the factors related to rectal sensitivity were analyzed to determine the factors associated with rectal sensitivity, and the effect of biofeedback therapy on rectal sensitivity was clarified.
Results:
Rectal sensitivity in different subtypes of FDD decreased, and the difference between the two groups was not statistically significant ( P > 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in the first constant sensation volume, defecatory desire volume, and maximum tolerable volume between the different subtypes of FDD ( P > 0.05). Multi-factor binary logistic regression analysis showed that age, constipation symptom score, and diabetes were all independent risk factors for decreased rectal sensitivity ( P < 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences between the prior- and post-biofeedback therapy in the first constant sensation volume, defecatory desire volume, and maximum tolerable volume ( P > 0.05).
Conclusion:
Rectal sensitivity in different subtypes of FDD decreased. Age, constipation symptom score, and diabetes were independent risk factors for decreased rectal sensitivity. Short-term biofeedback therapy did not improve rectal hyposensitivity in patients with FDD.
Related Concept Videos
Irritable Bowel Syndrome II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Evaluation
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is classified into subtypes based on the predominant bowel habits as determined by the Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS). The subtypes are:
Assessment of the Rectum and Anus
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Irritable Bowel Syndrome I: Introduction
IBS is a chronic condition that can persist over a long period or recur frequently.
The pathogenesis of IBS involves a complex interplay of the following factors:
Altered...
Chronic Bowel Disorders: Introduction
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder affecting the gastrointestinal tract. The distinctive feature is recurrent abdominal pain associated with altered bowel movements, manifesting as constipation, diarrhea, or fluctuating between both. The...
Feces Formation and Defecation
The mass peristalsis then pushes the feces into the rectum, which stretches the rectal walls to activate...
Drugs for Treatment of Diarrhea-Predominant IBS
Two specific drugs used in the treatment are alosetron (Lotronex) and eluxadoline (Viberzi). Alosetron, a 5-HT3 antagonist, works by slowing the movement of stools in the gut, reducing bowel...

