Abstract
Background: Anorectal manometry (ARM) comprehensively assesses anorectal sensorimotor functions. Purpose: This review examines the indications, techniques, interpretation, strengths, and weaknesses of high-resolution ARM (HR-ARM), 3-dimensional high-resolution anorectal manometry (3D-HR-ARM), and portable ARM, and other assessments (i.e., rectal sensation and rectal balloon expulsion test) that are performed alongside manometry. It is based on a literature search of articles related to ARM in adults. HR-ARM and 3D-HR-ARM are useful for diagnosing defecatory disorders (DD), to identify anorectal sensorimotor dysfunction and guide management in patients with fecal incontinence (FI), constipation, megacolon, and megarectum; and to screen for anorectal structural (e.g., rectal intussusception) abnormalities. The rectal balloon expulsion test is a useful, low-cost, radiation-free, outpatient assessment tool for impaired evacuation that is performed and interpreted in conjunction with ARM. The anorectal function tests should be interpreted with reference to age- and sex-matched normal values, clinical features, and results of other tests. A larger database of technique-specific normal values and newer paradigms of analyzing anorectal pressure profiles will increase the precision and diagnostic utility of HR-ARM for identifying abnormal mechanisms of defecation and continence.
Original language | English (US) |
---|---|
Article number | e14335 |
Journal | Neurogastroenterology and Motility |
Volume | 34 |
Issue number | 9 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Sep 2022 |
Keywords
- anal sphincter
- biofeedback therapy
- constipation
- high-resolution anorectal manometry
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Physiology
- Endocrine and Autonomic Systems
- Gastroenterology