What is Anorectal Manometry?
Anorectal manometry is a non-invasive procedure used to evaluate the group of anal and rectal muscles called the anorectal sphincter. This sphincter controls how stool is expelled from the body. Anorectal manometry helps determine if the anorectal sphincter is too loose, tight, or non-engaging. The test also measures the pressure created by the muscles and neural reflexes necessary for regular bowel movements.
When is Anorectal Manometry Recommended?
Bowel movements require synchronising specialised muscles and nerves in the rectum and anal canal. When stool enters the rectum, the anal sphincter contract to prevent its passage. When this sphincter relaxes, you can pass the stool. However, when the muscles in the anal sphincter do not function properly, you may develop faecal incontinence.
Anorectal manometry diagnosis is recommended for the following:
- Diagnosing the cause of faecal incontinence and constipation
- Detecting malformations or injuries in the anus or rectum
- Evaluating any injury to the nerves or muscles in the anorectal region
- Assessing and diagnosing irritable bowel syndrome
- Diagnosing and confirming rectal cancer
What Happens During Anorectal Manometry?
If your doctor recommends undergoing an anorectal manometry diagnosis, you will need to prepare with two rectal enemas two hours before the procedure. You must avoid eating or drinking anything two hours before the procedure.
Anorectal manometry is a very simple procedure that requires no sedation or anaesthesia. Here’s what happens during this diagnostic procedure:
- You will need to change into a hospital gown as instructed by the lab technician.
- The entire procedure will be explained to you before it begins.
- You will need to lie on your left side with your knees pulled towards the body in a foetal position. This position gives your doctor better access to a physical examination before the anorectal manometry.
- The technician now performs a physical examination of the anorectal tissues using a gloved finger to feel any abnormalities.
- A small flexible lubricated tube or catheter with a deflated balloon on one end is inserted into the anus and rectum.
- The catheter is connected to a machine that regulates and measures pressure. This device helps inflate and deflate the balloon.
- The device is connected to computer software to control test settings and record readings from the balloon.
- Once the balloon is in place, the technician inflates the balloon to a specific size and asks you to cough, relax, or squeeze the muscles for brief intervals.
- This step is repeated with different balloon sizes and positions in the rectum.
- Once the test is over, the technician deflates the balloon to remove it from the rectum and anal canal. The entire test takes around 30 minutes.
How to Interpret Test Results?
Your anorectal manometry test results help your gastroenterologist determine the cause of your constipation and incontinence. Suppose your test reveals poor anorectal sphincter muscles are the cause of your incontinence. In such a case, your doctor will create a treatment plan that may involve biofeedback techniques and exercise for the pelvic floor muscles to strengthen them. Your gastroenterologist will prescribe an effective treatment plan depending on your physical health, signs and symptoms, and the anorectal manometry test results.
What is the Cost of Anorectal Manometry in Bangalore?
Anorectal manometry is a diagnostic and investigative procedure that gastroenterologists prescribe to patients experiencing symptoms like faecal incontinence, distal constipation, rectocele, etc.
Anorectal manometry test cost is highly affordable in Indian cities like Bangalore. However, since anorectal manometry is a specialised test, it may be slightly more expensive than a routine colonoscopy and other diagnostic procedures.
The cost of your anorectal manometry may increase if your doctor recommends any additional procedures.
Conclusion
Most people wonder, “is anorectal manometry painful?” Anorectal manometry may sound scary, but it is a safe, low-risk procedure that rarely causes complications or side effects. It is natural to feel anxious before and during the procedure.
If you are experiencing faecal incontinence, pain, or discomfort in the anus or rectum, consult top gastroenterologists in Bangalore. If you are searching for anorectal manometry near me or anorectal manometry test cost, call now to book an appointment with us at 080990 08800!
