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[Anal endosonography: the study technic and the correlations between the normal and echographic anatomy]
L Brunese1, M Amitrano, V Gargano
1Istituto di Scienze Radiologiche, Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi Federico II, Napoli.
La Radiologia Medica
|March 1, 1996
Summary
Anal endosonography visualizes the distinct layers of the anal canal in healthy volunteers. Internal sphincter muscle thickness varies with age, averaging 2.1 mm.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Medical Imaging
- Anatomy
Background:
- Anal endosonography is an imaging technique used to visualize the anal canal.
- Understanding the normal anatomy of the anal canal is crucial for diagnosing various anorectal conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the sono-anatomy of the anal canal in healthy volunteers using endosonography.
- To measure the thickness of the internal and external sphincter muscles and assess age-related variations.
Main Methods:
- 16 healthy volunteers underwent anal endosonography using a 7-MHz probe.
- Examinations were performed at deep, intermediate, and superficial planes.
- Internal and external sphincter muscle thicknesses were measured.
Main Results:
- Endosonography revealed distinct echogenic patterns for different anal canal layers.
- Internal sphincter muscle thickness averaged 2.1 mm, with greater thickness in older individuals (>44 years).
- External sphincter muscle thickness showed no significant age-related difference.
Conclusions:
- Anal endosonography effectively delineates the anal canal's layered structure.
- Internal sphincter muscle thickness is influenced by age, suggesting potential age-related changes.
- This study provides normative data for anal endosonography in healthy adults.