A new anal manometry technique for assessing the functional state of the rectal sphincter apparatus

Abstract

Objective. To develop a new modern precession strain gauge sphincterometer for assessing the functional state of the sphincteric apparatus of the rectum in the normal state with an increase in the accuracy of the results of recording the absolute pressure values generated in it. Materials and methods. The results of anal manometry (sphincterometry) of 90 patients (45 men and 45 women) aged 18 to 72 years without anorectal pathology and manifestations of anal incontinence were analysed to establish normal indicators of the state of the sphincteric apparatus of the rectum using a newly developed modern precession strain gauge sphincterometer. Results. The conducted sphincterometric study allowed to establish the following indicators of the functional state of the sphincteric apparatus of the rectum in the norm for men: sphincter tone (26.7 ± 2.2) mm Hg, maximum contraction (35.6 ± 5.1) mm Hg, gradient of voluntary contraction (9 ± 4.9) mm Hg, cough test (36.5 ± 4.9) mm Hg, test with straining (38.2 ± 3.5) mm Hg; for women: sphincter tone (23.3 ± 2.5) mm Hg, maximum contraction (31.3 ± 4.3) mm Hg, voluntary contraction gradient (8.0 ± 3.6) mmHg, cough test (31.6 ± 3.0) mmHg, and expiratory test (32.4 ± 3.0) mmHg. Conclusions. The proposed method of anal manometry allows for a detailed study and objective assessment of the functional state of the sphincteric apparatus of the rectum in men and women in the normal state according to such indicators as sphincter tone and maximum contraction, gradient of voluntary contraction, as well as cough and straining tests.