Anorectal Manometry Offered at Mercy in Baltimore
The doctors of The Institute for Digestive Health and Liver Disease at Mercy specialize in diseases of the all areas of the digestive tract. To help patients who struggle with fecal incontinence, constipation and Hirschsprung’s disease, our doctors may perform an anorectal manometry test.
What is Anorectal Manometry?
Anorectal manometry is an important diagnostic tool used to fully and properly assess fecal incontinence, chronic constipation and other anorectal pain disorders. The test evaluates a patient’s bowel function and determines the strength of the rectal and anal muscles.
How does Anorectal Manometry work?
When performing an anorectal manometry test, a small balloon is placed in the rectum to distend the rectum, allowing the clinician to view the strength of the anal sphincter muscles, sensations of stool in the rectum, reflexes that govern the bowel and movements of the rectal and anal muscles.
When is Anorectal Manometry used?
The anorectal manometry test is commonly given to people who experience the conditions below. The test can help diagnose underlying conditions and uncover potential treatment options.
- Fecal incontinence
- Chronic constipation
- Difficulty passing stool
- Hirschsprung’s disease in children