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Anal endosonography in asymptomatic subjects
M Papachrysostomou1, S D Pye, S R Wild
1Dept. of Surgery, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, U.K.
Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology
|June 1, 1993
Summary
Ultrasonography revealed that external anal sphincter (EAS) thickness varies with gender and age, while internal anal sphincter (IAS) thickness changes with age. Their combined thickness correlates with anal canal resting pressure.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- The anal sphincters, internal anal sphincter (IAS) and external anal sphincter (EAS), are crucial for fecal continence.
- Understanding their structural variations is important for diagnosing and managing anorectal disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To ultrasonographically measure the thickness of the IAS and EAS in asymptomatic subjects.
- To investigate the correlation of sphincter thickness with gender, age, and anorectal manometry findings.
Main Methods:
- Ultrasonographic measurements of IAS and EAS thickness in 30 asymptomatic individuals.
- Correlation analysis with demographic data (gender, age) and anorectal manometry results.
Main Results:
- EAS was thicker in males than females (p < 0.02) and thinned with age (p < 0.005).
- IAS showed no gender difference but appeared thicker with age (p < 0.0002).
- EAS and IAS thickness correlated inversely (p < 0.001), and their sum correlated with anal canal resting pressure (p < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- Sphincter thickness varies significantly with gender and age.
- Despite variations, IAS and EAS thickness changes are proportional and reflect overall tonic activity.
- Ultrasonography provides valuable insights into anal sphincter structure and function.